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An SQL database is overkill if your storage needs are small. When I was young and dumb, I used a text file and flock()ed it when I needed to access it. This doesn't scale, but I still feel that non-database solutions have been completely ignored in Web 2.0.
Does anyone not use an SQL database for storage? What are the alternatives?
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SQLite is also a good option. No need to install a server. SQL Server Compact Edition doesn't require a server either. Like SQLite, it runs in-process.
For businesses, the quick answer is yes. Even with tableless databases such as MongoDB and Firebase becoming mainstream, and being advocated for by developers as well as being used in increasing proportion, SQL is still relevant — especially from data persistence and scalable cost perspectives.
There are a lot of alternatives. But having SQLite which gives you SQL power combined with no fuss of file based storage, there is no need to look for these alternatives. SQLite is light enough to be used in cell phones and MP3 players, so I don't see how it could be considered an overkill.
So unless your application needs something very specific, don't bother. Most alternatives are a lot harder to use and have less performance.
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