Apache Derby

Apache Derby implements a robust and reliable embedded database system that can be integrated with Java applications. Its performance is proven by the large number of software solutions that rely on its feature set to efficiently manage large databases.

Its powerful database engine provides support for the JDBC and SQL standards, being able to run in the background and requiring minimum user feedback. In embedded mode, Apache Derby requires all connections to be sourced from the same Java virtual machine, which means that the database can only be accessed by the host application.

Alternatively, you can deploy Apache Derby as a client-server utility, designed to allow multiple users in the network to connect to its database. The main function of the server is to process all the requests that come from client applications over TCP/IP.

The built-in JDBC scripting tool can be used for running queries against the database, while the 'dblook' utility performs SQL dumps for database schemas.

The power of Apache Derby resides in its simplicity, ease of deployment and configuration, which makes it very easy to handle. Creating a new database instance and a system of tables, managing schemas, views, functions and procedures can be easily done even by those who have neved worked with databases before.

Apache Derby can handle heavy data loads, with more than satisfactory capabilities on multiple operating systems. While it scores above the average database management systems when it comes to flexibility and ease of use, it lacks the security features that some of its competitors provide.

Its functionality is really impressive, considering the lightweight size and the open-source license. Its rich feature set is definitely worth considering when choosing a database system for your Java application.