The only thing you really need to understand about databases is that they store data for you, ie. they persist data.
...is like saying "the only thing you really need to know about sex is that it is for procreation." :-)
Sorry - couldn't resist. Utilizing databases effectively is often an area that is overlooked or kind of an afterthought. In my experience, often issues of scale stem from poor database design.
I put this in a separate comment, but any of Tom Kyte's books are excellent for gaining an understanding of how to use databases effectively. Although they are Oracle focused, there is still a lot to be learned about practical database design and utilization from his books. He also has a great site called “Ask Tom” where he answers questions. I have learned a ton from simply reading questions and his responses. Again, all Oracle focused, but very valuable nonetheless.
...is like saying "the only thing you really need to know about sex is that it is for procreation." :-)
Sorry - couldn't resist. Utilizing databases effectively is often an area that is overlooked or kind of an afterthought. In my experience, often issues of scale stem from poor database design.
I put this in a separate comment, but any of Tom Kyte's books are excellent for gaining an understanding of how to use databases effectively. Although they are Oracle focused, there is still a lot to be learned about practical database design and utilization from his books. He also has a great site called “Ask Tom” where he answers questions. I have learned a ton from simply reading questions and his responses. Again, all Oracle focused, but very valuable nonetheless.
Ask Tom Link: http://asktom.oracle.com/pls/apex/f?p=100:1:0