The major difference between single-container
and multi-container databases in SAP HANA lies in their architecture and
management capabilities.
Single-Container Databases
A single-container database system consists of only one database instance managed by the SAP HANA database management system. This configuration includes:
Single Database Instance:
There is only one database that encompasses all the processes and memory structures needed for managing the database.
Simplicity:
The single-container system provides a straightforward management approach, ideal for environments with fewer users and simpler data management needs.
Limited Isolation:
In this mode, multiple schemas can be managed, but all users and applications share the same database instance, which can lead to challenges in resource isolation and security.
Multi-Container Databases (Multitenant Database
Containers - MDC)
In contrast, multi-container databases allow multiple isolated tenant databases to exist within a single SAP HANA system. Key features include:
Multiple Tenant Databases:
Each database is fully isolated with its own users, catalog, resources, and data, enabling better security and resource management.
Efficient Resource Utilization:
All tenant databases share the same system resources (memory and CPU cores), but they are managed independently, allowing for flexible resource allocation.
Improved Backup and Recovery:
Users can perform backup and recovery operations at both the tenant and system levels, which provides greater flexibility and simplified maintenance.
Cloud-Based Applications:
The architecture supports multi-tenant cloud applications more effectively, allowing different applications to run concurrently without affecting each other.
Summary
In summary, while single-container databases offer simplicity and are suited for smaller environments, multi-container databases provide enhanced security, resource utilization, and management flexibility, making them suitable for complex and cloud-based applications. The transition to multi-container architecture is considered advantageous for organizations necessitating improved scalability and efficient resource management.