Database view, also known as a virtual table, is a subset of a database defined by a query. It is created from one or more other tables in the database. It can be used to summarize data, hide sensitive information, or simply make it easier to work with the data.
Continue reading to learn about database views and how to create them!
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Database View
A database view is a logical table that doesn’t physically exist or hold data. Instead, it uses pre-defined queries to fetch data from one or more tables.
Database views are useful for hiding sensitive data, such as passwords and social security numbers, from unauthorized users. They also simplify data management by offering a summarized view, avoiding the need to sift through multiple tables.
A view can use several base tables, but most are made from just one table. Since it doesn’t take up space in the database, creating a view is quick and light on resources.
- Logical table without data
- Hides sensitive information
- Quick to create
How to Create a Database View?
Views can be created in two ways:
Create views using the CREATE VIEW statement. This command builds a view from one or more tables. You need to specify the view’s name to generate its data.
The CREATE OR REPLACE VIEW statement lets you either create a new view or update an existing one.
Example:
CREATE VIEW myview AS
SELECT * FROM mytable;
This example creates a view called myview with all the columns and rows from the mytable table.
Once you create a view, you can query it like any other table in the database. Just use the view’s name in a SELECT statement.
Example:
SELECT * FROM myview;
This example queries the myview view for its data.
- CREATE VIEW statement
- Create or replace views
- Query views like tables
Database Views – The Benefits
Using database views offers several benefits:
Hiding Data
Hide sensitive information from users who shouldn’t see it by using a view. For example, create a view that shows the customer’s name and address but keeps their credit card number hidden.
Don’t Occupy Space
Views don’t take up space in the database since they don’t physically exist. This makes them a fast and efficient way to retrieve data.
Easier to Use
Views simplify data use in the database by providing a summary view, so you don’t have to sift through all the tables.
Data Security
Views enhance data security by limiting access to specific columns or tables in a database.
Faster Queries
Using a view returns results much faster than running the same query against the base tables.