Network Model in DBMS

Like the hierarchical data model, this model is fairly simple and easy to create. It’s intended to be a flexible way of representing items and their interactions. The main difference between this model and the hierarchical model is that any record can have several parents. It uses a graph instead of a hierarchical tree.

In this article, we will dive deeper into the Network Model in DBMS according to the GATE Syllabus for (Computer Science Engineering) CSE. Keep reading ahead to learn more.

Table of Contents

What is the Network Model in DBMS?

The hierarchical model is extended in the network model. Prior to the relational model, it was the most popular model. To increase database performance and standards, the network model was devised to express complicated data relationships more effectively than hierarchical models. It has entities that are grouped in a graphical format, and some of the entities can be reached by many paths.

Example

We can observe that the node student has two parents, CSE Department and Library, in the example below. In the hierarchical model, this was previously impossible.

Features of a Network Model

1. Multiple Paths

There may be several paths to the same record due to the increased number of relationships. It allows for quick and easy data access.

2. The Ability to Merge More Relationships

Data is more connected in this model since there are more relationships. This paradigm can handle many-to-many as well as one-to-one relationships.

3. Circular Linked List

The circular linked list is used to perform operations on the network model. The present position is kept up to date with the help of a software, and it navigates through the records based on the relationship.

Pros of Network Model

• In comparison to the hierarchical model, data can be retrieved faster. This is because the data in the network model is more related, and there may be more than one path to a given node. As a result, the data can be accessed in a variety of ways.
• Data integrity is present since there is a parent-child relationship. Any changes to the parent record are mirrored in the child record.

Cons of Network Model

• As the number of relationships to be managed grows, the system may get increasingly complicated. To operate with the model, a user must have a thorough understanding of it.
• Any alteration, such as an update, deletion, or insertion, is extremely difficult.

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