Top 15 Free Cloud Based Database Software

A cloud-based database is built, deployed, and accessed in a cloud environment, private, public, or hybrid cloud. The differentiating factor between traditional and cloud is that cloud-based databases are accessible through multiple sources.

By saving your business information, records, and all other else in a database, a cloud-based data software should definitely be a priority.

For instance, we, at Penji are a cloud-based graphic service. Many of our clients turn to us because they want an all-in-one solution. From having excellent designs done in as little as 24 hours to having the files secure in our cloud system, we’ve got everything covered. And if you have yet to set up your cloud-based software, read on to learn about the top options in the market.

Want to give Penji a try? Use code “CLOUDBASE15” for 15% off your first month!

What are Cloud Databases?

First, let’s look into what a cloud database software is and how it can be beneficial for your startup. A cloud database is a storage system that lets you save files and data on a server that is connected to the internet. With a cloud database service provider, all the info stored in your company’s computers is transferred to the database that you access through the internet.

You no longer have to worry about running out of storage space, or hiring a technician every time your computer conks out, or when there is intermittent weather that can cause damage to your machines. All your data is stored in the “clouds” somewhere in the wide, wide world of the internet.

As a startup, getting a cloud database service provider can be costly, but there are free software that you can get that are free or almost free. There are databases that come with free use for a limited time that will allow you to choose the best one for your startup. Here are the top ten best and free cloud-based database software:

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1. MySQL

The most popular open source database, MySQL has been around for more than 30 years. It has evolved and is known to be the best database for web-based applications such as Trello and Gmail. It uses the Structured Query Language (SQL) which lets you store data in tables, create indexes on the data, and query the data.

Facebook and Twitter are some examples of websites that use MySQL to store backend data. It supports a wide variety of operating systems and has a very low chance of getting your data corrupted. One of its low points though is that you need someone who is proficient in the SQL language for you to use it.

2. PostgreSQL

PostgreSQL has also been around for a long time, but not as long as MySQL. It’s more than 20 year-history makes it one of the best software that provides high-quality performance for companies such as Cisco and IMDb, to name a few. It can handle the storage, processing, and extraction of datasets—spatial and non-spatial—remarkably well. For free, you can use this cloud based database. 

PostgreSQL can manage a huge amount of data and can accommodate a large number of users simultaneously. It can run on all major operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and UNIX. However, it is somewhat lacking in the documentation side but troubleshooting is easy to find on the web.

3. NuoDB

NuoDB is a database company founded in 2008 and its database technology is known to be highly scalable, ACID compliant, and efficient in hybrid workloads. It is easy to install and even easier to manage, and startups would love how cheap it is should you want to upgrade to their enterprise edition. This company claims that their cloud based database software can handle a load of 1 million transactions per second that runs on just 20 servers. It has the capability of adapting with other scripts of MySQL and other web development tools. The most negative thing you can find about this software is its interface that isn’t as appealing as the others.

4. MariaDB

MariaDB is the fastest growing open source database available. It is one of the most stable and offers an extensible architecture that allows you to match your tools with your needs. MariaDB is equipped with an optimizer that uses resources greatly to increase query performance and processing. This comes from a relatively new company but has the ability to adapt to your startup’s growing needs as it also offers a paid version. Unfortunately, support isn’t free even if the software is.

5. Oracle Database XE

One of the best and well tested relational databases, Oracle Database XE is suitable for large installations. It performs well even when handling huge amounts of data. It lets you develop and deploy applications with its powerful infrastructure and is easy to install and manage. One caveat though, it can cost a lot if you want to go pro with the software. If you are on a limited budget, you may have to check the others before you look into this one.

6. MarkLogic

MarkLogic provides you with 1TB of storage space for free. It has a feature that supports ACID transactions that you can rarely find in a NoSQL system. While other software offer poor documentation, MarkLogic gives you a superb one. However, upgrading can prove to be too costly for startups as even the hardware for it can be expensive. For free, enjoy this cloud based database.

7. Azure SQL Database

If you’re a startup that requires a flexible database solution, Azure SQL Database should be on your shortlist. It can easily be scaled without the need for more memory or new servers. Since it’s already managed, you don’t have to worry about infrastructure maintenance and upgrading. Migration from on-premise hardware can be difficult, though.

8. Google App Engine

Google App Engine lets you build web applications and mobile backends that are fully scalable. It comes with built-in services such as memcache, No SQL datastores, and user authentication APIs. This is perfect for startups as it automatically scales your application depending on the amount of traffic it receives. It is offered free for a one-month trial period only, but you’ll only pay for the resources you use. In the long run, it is still cheaper than others as you no longer have to worry about paying for the maintenance of servers.

9. MongoDB

MongoDB is a next-generation database software having been formed in 2009 with already 30 million downloads under its belt. MetLife and Expedia use it for their storage needs. Its document model allows you to develop software ideas in Java quite easily. It runs on multiple platforms and provides drivers for most languages such as Python, C++, and Java. It performs well with indexing, high-availability data replication, and ad hoc querying but set up is hard and a long process.

10. Apache CouchDB

If traditional SQL isn’t for you, Apache CouchDB is the database you should go for. You can store serialized objects as unstructured data in JSON formatted documents, ideal for web and mobile applications. The response time for queries is amazingly swift, it is fully schema-free, and can work efficiently on just one machine.

11. Orient DB

OrientDB is an excellent resource if you need a tool that can share data using clusters, do multi-master replication, and automate distributed transactions and queries. This open-source NoSQL multi-model database works with various platforms –  Linux, Windows, Solaris, Mac OS X, and HP-UX. 

The database allows organizations to unlock graph databases without needing to deploy multiple systems that would handle other data types. This results in increased security and performance while allowing for scalability.

12. SQLite

Consider SQLite if you want a C programming language library that could provide you with a reliable, self-contained, and full-featured SQL database engine. SQLite prides itself in being the most used database engine in the world. In fact, it’s built into all mobile phones as well as most computers. It also comes bundled in other applications that people use daily.

As the name suggests, this database management system is very lightweight compared to its counterparts. The in-memory library also allows clients to use it directly even without having to install or configure anything. In the same vein, it doesn’t need a dedicated server to store a database. 

13. Cassandra

If you’re looking for a free tool that could manage a huge amount of data and across a wide range of servers at that, Apache Cassandra is an excellent option. This cross-platform tool, available for SQL, Go, C++, Python, and Node JS provides support allowing users to replicate across multiple datacenters. 

This tool is especially useful for ventures who desire high availability and scalability all while maintaining the level of performance. The ventures who choose Cassandra do so because it allows data to be copied to numerous nodes, thus offering a fault-tolerance system. In addition to that, it also provides support for contracts, as well as third-party services, making for flexible capabilities.

14. Microsoft SQL

Developed by Microsoft, Microsoft SQL is a Relational Database Management System. is the standard SQL which is ANSI. This database supports C, C++, Java, and C# languages, and can be used for a number of platforms, including Docker Engine, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, and Ubuntu.

One of the main features of this database is the integration of structured and unstructured data using Spark and SQL Server. In relation to that, the database offers performance and scalability. It also provides capabilities for intelligent applications, data lakes, and data warehouses. It also offers access to rich, interactive Power BI reports, resulting in quicker and better performance.

15. DynamoDB

Amazon DynamoDB is basically a cross-platform serverless database. It scales automatically, thus saving users time and effort. It also backs up clients’ data for protection. This database works with many languages, including Go, Java, Node.js, NET, and more. 

If you’re looking for a non-relational database system that offers consistent latency, check out DynamoDB. Besides the consistent latency it offers, it also provides in-memory caching and built-in security, making it an excellent option for ventures who need both features. In addition to those, this database offers secondary indexes, resulting in added flexibility to query on various attributes.

What is the role of a digital agency? 

If you hire a digital agency for growing your business, the growth potential is promising. An agency’s role comprises of the following:

• Leads the creative direction
• Responsible for branding creation
• Creates visuals for branding and marketing 
• Creates advertising designs
• Market and audience research
• Content repositioning
• Data analysis
• Monitoring and insights

What is a digital production agency? 

A digital production agency consists of a team of creatives that handle a business’s visual assets coupled with copywriting. These elements are then combined with modern techniques and technology to cater to specific target audiences in fast-evolving business landscapes. The outcome is typically a marriage of technology and artistry that captivates viewers and resolves people’s pain points. 

What are the best digital agencies?

The best digital agencies are those that have gained traction in the creative field of graphics, UX/UI, animation, video editing, and more. Here are the top 10 best digital agencies in 2021:

• Ignite Visibility
• 97th Floor
• Rise Interactive
• WebFX
• DigitalMarketing.com
• WebiMax
• Mad Fish Digital 
• Split Reef
• Max Audience
• Location3

What are cloud-based databases?

Cloud-based databases or services refer to companies that offer their software to users through a cloud platform. The users don’t have to install or buy hardware to use the service. Instead, they access the service’s software via cloud computing. As long as there is internet connectivity, users can use the applications or software anywhere in the world. Also, cloud-based database services run on a pay-per-use scheme. This means, users only pay as long as they’re subscribed to the service.

What are examples of cloud databases?

Here are examples of cloud databases:

• Microsoft Azure SQL Database
• Amazon Relational Database Service
• Google Cloud SQL
• IBM Db2 on Cloud
• Oracle Database
• Google BigQuery
• Amazon Redshift

Is SQL database cloud-based?

Considered as a type of database that is cloud-based, SQL (Structured Query Language) databases can either run as a service or in a virtual machine. It pertains to aggregate data stored in a collection of tables. 

How to Use Penji to Request for Graphic Design?

When you use Penji, you can receive the first draft within 24 to 48 hours! It’s that fast and simple. Get a brief overview of how you can request any graphic design from Penji.

Step 1: Create

For you to start your project, you need to sign up for Penji. Once you’ve done that, you can create a project on the Penji platform. You won’t have to fill out any complicated forms.

So, click on “Create Project,” and then scroll down to a category that fits your design needs. If you don’t see the type of design you need, click “Create Custom Project.”

After that, fill in your design brief, click submit, that’s it! 

Step 2: Connect

Many brands love Penji because they didn’t have to hire a freelancer for their designs. Penji trims that process, so you’ll receive a design in a snap.

When you submit a project, Penji matches you with the best designer for the job. They’ll read your design brief and ask you for any more clarifications about the project. Once done, they’ll get to work on your first draft.

Step 3: Review

Penji ensures the quick turnaround promise. We don’t want to delay your projects. That’s why within 24 to 48 hours, you get the first draft.

Once you receive the first draft, tell us how you find it. Do you love it? Is there something that needs improvement? Use the point-and-click feature to make it clearer for your designer.

Plus, you won’t have to worry about additional costs for unlimited revisions. It’s all part of any Penji plan! Revise until you receive the design you love.

Step 4: Download

This is everyone’s favorite step. Once you’re delighted with the design, you can download it in a flash.

Just click the green Download button, and the design is all yours. Yes, it’s all yours since you also have complete ownership of the files.

Since Penji uses a cloud to store your designs, access it anytime you need it! You won’t get frantic finding the files on your computer or losing it on another software. It’s secure in the Penji cloud software.

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Don’t stress yourself in finding the right graphic designer for any design project. Penji has got you covered. No more onboarding, no complicated forms, no delayed projects. Let us focus on your design needs while you focus on what matters most in your business. Get started on your Penji subscription today.