Data Serialization
Data which is used by computer programs can reside in three primary states:
- Data in use – Active data under constant change, which is stored in a non-persistent digital state typically in computer RAM, CPU caches or CPU registers.
- Data in transit or motion – Data that is being transferred from one location to another typically over a computer network.
- Data at rest – Inactive data which is stored physically on computer data storage (databases, files, object stores, etc.) in any digital form (structured or unstructured).
Big Data
Big data primarily refers to data sets that are too large or complex to be dealt with by traditional data management systems. It includes diverse collections of structured, unstructured and semi-structured data that continues to grow exponentially over time. Though used sometimes loosely partly due to a lack of formal definition, the best interpretation is that it is a large body of information that cannot be comprehended when used in small amounts only.