Data Definition Language (DDL) is a part of SQL (Structured Query Language) that deals with defining and managing the structure of a database. DDL commands modify the metadata of a database, such as information about tables, schemas, indexes, and other database objects, rather than manipulating the actual data.
Key DDL Commands:
1. CREATE
Used to create new database objects like tables, schemas, views, or indexes.
Example:
CREATE TABLE Kunden (
ID INT PRIMARY KEY,
Name VARCHAR(50),
Alter INT
);
2. ALTER
Used to modify the structure of existing objects, such as adding or removing columns.
Example:
ALTER TABLE Kunden ADD Email VARCHAR(100);
3. DROP
Permanently deletes a database object, such as a table.
Example:
DROP TABLE Kunden;
4. TRUNCATE
Removes all data from a table while keeping its structure intact. It is faster than DELETE
as it does not generate transaction logs.
Example:
TRUNCATE TABLE Kunden;
Characteristics of DDL Commands:
- Changes made by DDL commands are automatically permanent (implicit commit).
- They affect the database structure, not the data itself.
DDL is essential for designing and managing a database and is typically used during the initial setup or when structural changes are required.