What is the main risk associated with a centralized database?

What is the main risk associated with a centralized database?

• A. High availability of data
• B. Potential lack of alternatives if the system is down
• C. Difficulty in implementing changes
• D. Issues with data sharing

Answer: (B)

A centralized database provides significant benefits, including simplified management and high availability of data, but it also introduces particular risks, the most critical of which is the potential lack of alternatives if the system is down. In a centralized database system, all data is stored in a single location, which can create a single point of failure. If the database becomes inaccessible due to technical issues, maintenance, or other unforeseen circumstances, users are unable to access crucial data or perform necessary functions. This interruption can have a cascading effect on business operations, as many processes rely on immediate access to data. The absence of alternative systems to retrieve or interact with the data during downtime can hinder business continuity. While data availability and sharing are typically enhanced through a centralized system and implementing changes generally allows for streamline processes, these benefits can quickly become liabilities if the central repository is compromised or unavailable. Thus, option B underscores a significant risk—the reliance on a single system for critical functions, highlighting the importance of considering backup and disaster recovery strategies when operating with a centralized database.

A centralized database provides significant benefits, including simplified management and high availability of data, but it also introduces particular risks, the most critical of which is the potential lack of alternatives if the system is down.

In a centralized database system, all data is stored in a single location, which can create a single point of failure. If the database becomes inaccessible due to technical issues, maintenance, or other unforeseen circumstances, users are unable to access crucial data or perform necessary functions. This interruption can have a cascading effect on business operations, as many processes rely on immediate access to data.

The absence of alternative systems to retrieve or interact with the data during downtime can hinder business continuity. While data availability and sharing are typically enhanced through a centralized system and implementing changes generally allows for streamline processes, these benefits can quickly become liabilities if the central repository is compromised or unavailable. Thus, option B underscores a significant risk—the reliance on a single system for critical functions, highlighting the importance of considering backup and disaster recovery strategies when operating with a centralized database.