What are the differences between indexing in SQL and NoSQL databases?

What are the differences between indexing in SQL and NoSQL databases?

In SQL databases, indexing is used to speed up query performance by creating a data structure that allows for quick lookups. In contrast, NoSQL databases may use different indexing strategies, such as key-value pairs or document-based indexing, depending on the type of NoSQL database.

Can you explain how indexing affects performance in both types?

Sure! In SQL, proper indexing can significantly reduce the time it takes to retrieve data, especially for large datasets. In NoSQL, indexing can also improve performance, but the impact varies based on the database type and the specific queries being executed.

Are there any downsides to using indexes?

Yes, while indexes improve read performance, they can slow down write operations because the index must be updated whenever data is modified. Additionally, indexes consume extra storage space.

Which type of database is better for large-scale applications?

It depends on the use case. SQL databases are great for structured data and complex queries, while NoSQL databases excel in handling unstructured data and scaling horizontally.