SQL (Structured Query Language) is a standardized programming language used for managing and manipulating relational databases. Some of the salient features of SQL include:
Data Retrieval:
SQL allows for easy retrieval of data from one or more tables using the SELECT statement. It supports filtering, sorting, and aggregation of data.
Data Manipulation:
SQL provides commands like INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE to add, modify, and remove data from tables.
Data Definition:
SQL allows for the creation and modification of database structures with commands like CREATE, ALTER, and DROP.
Data Integrity:
SQL supports constraints like primary keys, foreign keys, unique, and check constraints, ensuring data integrity and enforcing business rules.
Joins:
SQL allows the combination of data from multiple tables using JOIN operations, such as INNER JOIN, LEFT JOIN, and RIGHT JOIN.
Transaction Control:
SQL supports transaction control with commands like COMMIT, ROLLBACK, and SAVEPOINT, ensuring data consistency and atomicity.
Conclusion:
SQL is a powerful and versatile language for managing relational databases, offering features that support efficient data retrieval, manipulation, integrity, and control.