Databases & Data Storage
BASE
Definition
BASE (Basically Available, Soft state, Eventually consistent) is a data system design model that prizes availability over consistency. It is often used in distributed systems where high availability is critical.
Why It Matters
The BASE model is a response to the challenges of achieving strong consistency in large-scale distributed systems. Many NoSQL databases are designed with BASE principles to ensure they remain available even during network failures.
Contextual Example
A shopping cart on an e-commerce site might use a BASE model. It is "Basically Available" (always responsive), has a "Soft State" (the state can change over time without user input), and is "Eventually Consistent" (if you add an item on your phone, it will eventually appear on your laptop).
Common Misunderstandings
- It is the philosophical opposite of ACID.
- Eventual consistency is a key part of the model, accepting that data will be temporarily inconsistent across replicas.