ACID is an acronym that describes four key properties essential for the reliability of database transactions in a database management system (DBMS). These properties ensure the integrity of data and the consistency of the database even in the event of errors or system crashes. ACID stands for:
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Atomicity:
- Every transaction is treated as an indivisible unit. This means that either the entire transaction is completed successfully, or none of it is. If any part of the transaction fails, the entire transaction is rolled back, and the database remains in a consistent state.
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Consistency:
- Every transaction takes the database from one consistent state to another consistent state. This means that after a transaction completes, all integrity constraints of the database are satisfied. Consistency ensures that no transaction leaves the database in an invalid state.
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Isolation:
- Transactions are executed in isolation from each other. This means that the execution of one transaction must appear as though it is the only transaction running in the system. The results of a transaction are not visible to other transactions until the transaction is complete. This prevents concurrent transactions from interfering with each other and causing inconsistencies.
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Durability:
- Once a transaction is completed (i.e., committed), its changes are permanent, even in the event of a system failure. Durability is typically ensured by writing changes to non-volatile storage such as disk drives.
Example for Clarification
Consider a bank database with two accounts: Account A and Account B. A transaction transfers 100 euros from Account A to Account B. The ACID properties ensure the following:
- Atomicity: If the transfer fails for any reason (e.g., a system crash), the entire transaction is rolled back. Account A is not debited, and Account B does not receive any funds.
- Consistency: The transaction ensures that the total amount of money in both accounts remains the same before and after the transaction (assuming no other factors are involved). If Account A initially had 200 euros and Account B had 300 euros, the total balance of 500 euros remains unchanged after the transaction.
- Isolation: If two transfers occur simultaneously, they do not interfere with each other. Each transaction sees the database as if it is the only transaction running.
- Durability: Once the transaction is complete, the changes are permanent. Even if a power failure occurs immediately after the transaction, the new balances of Account A and Account B are preserved.
Importance of ACID
The ACID properties are crucial for the reliability and integrity of database transactions, especially in systems dealing with sensitive data, such as financial institutions, e-commerce platforms, and critical business applications. They help prevent data loss and corruption, ensuring that data remains consistent and trustworthy.
