Description: The term ‘Federated’ in the context of databases refers to an architecture that allows the integration and access to multiple databases in a unified manner. This architecture is particularly useful in environments where organizations manage different database management systems (DBMS) that may not be compatible with each other. The main feature of the federated approach is that it enables users to perform queries and retrieve data from various sources without the need to replicate or physically move the data to a single system. This is achieved through middleware that acts as an intermediary, facilitating communication between databases and presenting a coherent view of the data. The federated architecture is highly scalable and flexible, allowing organizations to integrate new databases as they grow or change their needs. Additionally, it promotes interoperability, meaning that different systems can work together seamlessly, which is crucial in a world where data is scattered across multiple platforms and formats. In summary, the federated approach is an effective solution for data management in complex and heterogeneous environments, optimizing access and utilization of available information.
