Databases have become essential in the world of big data. They provide a single, comprehensive view of data, which can be accessed via a web browser or an application. They are used to store and retrieve information from all types of data sources and to create reports. But a database is not just a collection of data. It also has to be secure. Fortunately, most databases have at least a few security measures to ensure they are not abused.

Most data catalogs allow users to search for specific data sets by keyword or filter. In addition, many of these data catalogs can automatically sort by frequency and relevance. Many data catalogs connect to BI tools and analytics platforms, enabling a self-service user experience that removes the burden of data engineers. They can also be used to store sensitive or private data. For example, a catalog for a library could include the author, title, and a placeholder for the book. In some cases, reader reviews and recommendations may also be available, making the catalog more useful.

One of the biggest challenges organizations face is keeping their data catalogs fresh. Data scientists, business analysts, and developers frequently change the structure of their databases, which makes it difficult to maintain a complete data catalog. As such, data catalogs must be able to automatically detect changes and update themselves. In addition, the data catalog should allow users to subscribe to notifications of changes. This can be done through governance actions and user interaction. Lastly, a database should allow users to create and edit wiki articles and searchable conversations.