3. What is Big Data?

Given that the subject of this book is Big Data, it will be useful to establish what Big Data is and how it applies to your database environment. In this chapter I will cover not only the definition of Big Data but where Big Data comes from, the types of Big Data, and how to know when you have a Big Data problem.

What Is Big Data Anyhow?

You hear incessant talk these days about Big Data; it seems as though everyone is jumping on the Big Data bandwagon. As is always the case with any new technological advance, it’s extremely important to cut through the marketing hype and get down to the basics of the subject so you can accomplish your objectives based on your own understanding.

Note

With any major advance in database technology, ...

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