What is DynamoDB?
This article introduces you to the cloud storage construct- DynamoDB.
Amazon DynamoDB is a NoSQL service, this means the database is non-relational. It is suitable for document and key-value store model.
Document databases store data in documents similar to JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) objects. Key value databases are simpler type where each entry contains keys and values.
DynamoDB uses SSD (Solid State Drive) which are optimised to deliver high read/write performance. It is also located across several distinct geographical data centres making it highly available.
It is therefore fast and flexible and well suited for read heavy applications.
When you write something to your DynamoDB the changes have to be duplicated to the other geographical data centres. This can take time and therefore DynamoDB offers two read consistency types, depending on your applications needs:
- Eventual consistent reads : This is the default. Consistency is reached within 1 second and this time delay could result in dirty reads.
- Strongly consistent reads: This guarantees that you will get the latest writes. The query may take some time but the data is correct.
Provisioned Throughput Capacity is the pricing model used to determine how much it will cost you to host a DynamoDB. This is based on read and write throughput. You will define the capacity you want to use when you create a table. DynamoDB is cheaper for reads and more expensive for writes.
I hope you learned something from this.
-R
