Key value databases save data as associative arrays where a single value is associated together with a key used as a signifier for the value. No two keys necessarily need the same structure, so data is simply accumulated into a single, large table. Database administrators can quickly pull the data by identifying a specific key. A query language is not necessary when retrieving data, which provides convenience for users who are lacking query language knowledge. Key value databases can also be used for web caches. Key value databases are a type of NoSQL database and are the least structured of the schemaless data stores. Other types of NoSQL tools include document database tools, graph database tools, object-orientated database tools and more. Those who need a solution at no cost can look at free database software.
To qualify for inclusion in the Key-Value Store category, a product must:
Provide data storage
Store data as a singular value associated with a key
Allow users to retrieve the data