What kind of data does a NoSQL database typically manage?

NoSQL databases are designed to handle unstructured or semi-structured data, which allows them to be more flexible compared to traditional relational databases. This type of data does not conform to a strict schema, as is required in structured data. Consequently, NoSQL databases are particularly well-suited for scenarios where data formats can vary widely, such as with JSON, XML, or documents, making them ideal for applications like big data analytics, real-time web applications, or content management systems.

The ability to manage unstructured or semi-structured data provides significant advantages, as it allows for the storage of diverse data types, such as images, videos, and text, alongside more traditional data types. This flexibility is especially valuable in environments that require rapid development and iterative design processes, where changes to data requirements can occur frequently.

Structured data, on the other hand, adheres to a predefined schema and is typically managed within relational databases. Relational data implies that the data is organized into tables with defined relationships, which is a fundamental characteristic of SQL databases. Hierarchical data is organized in a tree-like structure, which is not a primary focus of NoSQL databases; they often utilize more fluid structures to allow for greater versatility with complex data types.