Why is it called a flat file database?

Question

Linear stores of NoSQL data, JSON formatted data, primitive spreadsheets (perhaps comma-separated or tab-delimited), and text files can all be seen as flat-file databases, because they lack integrated indexes, built-in references between data elements, or complex data types.

Why is a flat file called a flat file?

A flat file database is a collection of records in which the data follows a uniform format and follows rules on value types where applicable. The database is flat because every line only holds one data input, depending on the categorization of the columns.

What does flat file mean in database?

A flat file database is a type of database that stores data in a single table. This is unlike a relational database, which makes use of multiple tables and relations. Flat file databases are generally in plain-text form, where each line holds only one record.

What does flat file system mean?

A flat file system is a system of files in which every file in the system must have a different name. In Windows 95 and most other operating system today, files are managed in a hierarchical file system with a hierarchy of directories and subdirectories, each containing a number of files (or subdirectories).

What is the difference between a database and a flat file?

Difference between database and flat files are given below: Database provide more flexibility whereas flat file provide less flexibility. Database system provide data consistency whereas flat file can not provide data consistency. Database is more secure over flat files.

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