What is a catalog in a database?

What does catalog mean in database?

A database catalog of a database instance consists of metadata in which definitions of database objects such as base tables, views (virtual tables), synonyms, value ranges, indexes, users, and user groups are stored.

What is the purpose of a database catalog?

A database catalog is a function included on a server that allows users and administrators to check information on every database installed on that server. Along with common information, a database catalog also holds metadata on every database, such as how many tables and rows are being used in a particular database.

What is catalog in SQL database?

The system catalog consists of tables describing the structure of objects such as databases, base tables, views, and indices. (These tables are called system base tables.) The Database Engine frequently accesses the system catalog for information that is essential for the system to function properly.

What is the difference between a database and a catalog?

A library catalog allows you to search for items owned by a specific library, including books, movies, journals, magazines, music scores, government documents, and more. Library databases allow you to efficiently search for published information such as magazine, journal, and newspaper articles.