portable non-relational database

Question

I want to experiment/play around with non-relational databases, it'd be best if the solution was:

• portable, meaning it doesn't require an installation. ideally just copy-pasting the directory to someplace would make it work. I don't mind if it requires editing some configuration files or running a configuration tool for first time usage.
• accessible from python
• works on both windows and linux

What can you recommend for me?

Essentially, I would like to be able to install this system on a shared linux server where I have little user privileges.

Answer 1

I recommend you consider BerkelyDB with awareness of the licensing issues.

I am getting very tired of people recommending BerkleyDB without qualification - you can only distribute BDB systems under GPL or some unknown and not publicly visible licensing fee from Oracle.

For "local" playing around where it is not in use by external parties, it's probably a good idea. Just be aware that there is a license waiting to bite you.

This is also a reminder that it is a good idea when asking for technology recommendations to say whether or not GPL is acceptable.

From my own question about a portable C API database, whilst a range of other products were suggested, none of the embedded ones have Python bindings.

Answer 2

Metakit is an interesting non-relational embedded database that supports Python.

Installation requires just copying a single shared library and .py file. It works on Windows, Linux and Mac and is open-source (MIT licensed).