An arrangement of networked computers in which data processing capabilities are spread across the network.

In DDP, specific jobs are performed by specialized computers which may be far removed from the user and/or from other such computers.

Under the centralized database approach, remote users send requests via terminals for data to the central site, which processes the requests and transmits the data back to the user. The central site performs the functions of a file manager that services the data needs of the remote users.

The reduction of data storage costs The elimination of multiple update procedures

The establishment of data currency ( that is, the firms data files reflect accurately the effects of its transaction)

During data processing, account balances pass through a state of TEMPORARY INCONSISTENCY, in which their values are incorrectly stated. This occurs during the accounting transaction. execution of any

To achieve data currency, simultaneous access to individual data elements by multiple sites needs to be prevented. Database Lockout: a software control (usually a function of the DBMS) that prevents multiple simultaneous accesses to data.

Distributed databases can be distributed using either the PARTITIONED or REPLICATED TECHNIQUE. The PARTITIONED DATABASE approach splits the central database into segments or partitions that are distributed to their primary users.

Storing data at local sites increases users control. Permitting local access to data and reducing the volume of data that must be transmitted between sites improves transaction processing response time. Partitioned databases can reduce the potential for disaster. By having data located at several sites, the loss of a single site cannot terminate all data processing by the organization.

In a distributed environment, it is possible that multiple sites will lock out each other, thus preventing each from processing its transactions. A deadlock occurs because there is mutual exclusion to data, and the transactions are in a wait state until the locks are removed.

Resolving a deadlock usually involves sacrificing one or more transactions. These must be terminated to complete the processing of the other transactions in the deadlock

Replicated databases are effective in companies where there exists a high degree of data sharing but no primary user. The primary justification for a replicated database is to support read-only queries. With data replicated at every site, data access for query purposes is ensured, and lockouts and delays because of network traffic are minimized.

Database concurrency is the presence of complete and accurate data at all remote sites. System designers need to employ methods to ensure that transactions processed at each site are accurately reflected in the databases at all other sites.

The decision to distribute databases is one that should be entered into thoughtfully. There are many issues and trade-offs to consider. Some of the basic questions are: a. Should the organizations data be centralized or distributed?

b. If data distribution is desirable, should the databases be replicated or partitioned? c. If replicated, should the databases be totally replicated or partially replicated? d. If the database is to be partitioned, how should the data segments be allocated among the sites?