Question

Discuss the disadvantages of a distributed database management system (DDBMS), in terms of “Security”.

Answer 1

In a centralized system, access to the data can be easily controlled. However, in a distributed DBMS not only does access to replicated data have to be controlled in multiple locations but also the network itself has to be made secure. In the past, networks were regarded as an insecure communication medium. Although this is still partially true, significant developments have been made to make networks more secure.

This database is more expensive as it is complex and hence, difficult to maintain.

It is difficult to provide security in a distributed database as the database needs to be secured at all the locations it is stored. Moreover, the infrastructure connecting all the nodes in a distributed database also needs to be secured.

It is difficult to maintain data integrity in the distributed database because of its nature. There can also be data redundancy in the database as it is stored at multiple locations.