a post for students in my database course In our previous post, we delved into the evolving landscape of databases, moving beyond the familiar structured world of SQL to explore NoSQL. We established that NoSQL, or “Not Only SQL,” encompasses a diverse range of databases, some structured and relational (like JSON’s key-value pairs), and others Read More
Author: Gary Ackerman
What Exactly is NoSQL? It’s More Nuanced Than You Think
a post for students in my database course The term “NoSQL” can be a bit misleading. While it literally stands for “Not SQL,” it’s more accurately interpreted as “Not Only SQL.” The core distinction, as the sources explain, is that anything that isn’t based on SQL is considered NoSQL. But here’s where it gets interesting: Read More
Foundations of SQL
a post for students in my database course Have you ever wondered how companies like Netflix recommend your next binge-watch, or how your favorite online store knows exactly what you might want to buy? It all comes down to data! In our increasingly digital world, data is everywhere, and the ability to understand, manage, and Read More
Digital Forensics
a post for students in my network security course In the intricate landscape of cybersecurity, understanding “what happened” after a security incident is as crucial as preventing it. This is where forensic investigations come into play. Often a critical component of incident response, forensic analysis is the meticulous process of examining systems, devices, or networks Read More
Essential Network Security Strategies
a post for students in my network security course In today’s interconnected world, an organization’s network is its digital nervous system, carrying vital information and enabling all operations. Protecting this critical infrastructure is paramount for cybersecurity analysts, who are responsible for securing the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information and systems. Building a secure network Read More
Why Our Machines Need to Understand Us
In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, the conversation often centers on cutting-edge algorithms, computational power, and the impressive feats machines can now accomplish. But what happens when these incredibly capable systems need to operate in the messy, unpredictable world of human beings? In Chapter 13 of “Possible Minds,” titled “Putting the Human into Read More
Malware Definitions and Avoidance
a post for students in my network security course In the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, understanding malware is important for individuals and organizations alike. What is Malware? Malware, a portmanteau of “malicious software,” is an umbrella term for any software intentionally designed to cause damage to a computer, server, client, or computer network, or Read More
Database Schema
A post for students in my database design and management course In the journey from raw data to actionable insights, a critical, often unseen, foundation is the database schema. Think of it as the architectural blueprint that defines how data is organized, stored, and related within a database. Without a well-designed schema, even the richest Read More
Metadata
Metadata, often dubbed “data about data,” is a concept frequently encountered but sometimes underappreciated in the world of information management. For those of you delving into introductory database design and management, understanding metadata isn’t just a bonus – it’s fundamental to building robust, usable, and future-proof databases. Let’s unpack why this seemingly abstract concept is Read More
Data, Information, and Databases
In our increasingly digital world, terms like “data,” “information,” and “database” are thrown around with such frequency that they often become interchangeable. However, for anyone working with or seeking to understand the foundational elements of modern technology, differentiating these concepts is not just an academic exercise – it’s crucial for effective communication, sound decision-making, and Read More