InterBase

InterBase is a high-performance, cross-platform relational database management system (RDBMS) known for its small footprint, multi-generational architecture (MVCC), and strong embedded capabilities. Originally designed for efficient client-server applications, it has evolved to support mobile,…

Key facts

First appeared
1986
Category
technology
Problem solved
InterBase was created to address the burgeoning need for a powerful, yet lightweight and embeddable relational database in the era of personal computing and nascent client-server architectures. Before InterBase, developers struggled with either file-based database systems that lacked transactional integrity and robust concurrency, or large, complex RDBMS platforms (like Oracle or Ingres) that were expensive, resource-intensive, and challenging to deploy and administer outside of large enterprise data centers. InterBase offered a solution that combined ACID compliance, high performance, and a small footprint, making it ideal for bundling with applications and for scenarios where dedicated database administrators were not available.
Platforms
Android, Linux, Solaris (historical), iOS, Windows, macOS

Related technologies

Notable users

  • Industrial control systems
  • Embarcadero customers (Delphi/C++Builder)
  • Medical device manufacturers
  • Mobile application developers
  • Manufacturers of point-of-sale (POS) systems