What Is a Database?

Database is a rather technical word for a collection of information that is organized as a list. This definition might be oversimplified, but whenever you use or make a list of information—names, addresses, products, customers, or invoices—you are using a database. A database that you store on your computer, however, is much more flexible and powerful than a simple list you keep on paper, in your card file, or in your address book.