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SQL views are virtual tables that are based on the result set of a SELECT statement. Views provide a way to simplify complex queries and hide the underlying complexity of the database schema. In this blog, we will discuss SQL views and their uses.
What is a View in SQL?
A view is a virtual table that is based on the result set of a SELECT statement. The SELECT statement can be used to retrieve data from one or more tables, and the view is created by giving a name to the result set of the SELECT statement. Once a view is created, it can be treated like a table and used in SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE statements.
Uses of Views in SQL There are several uses of views in SQL, including:
Simplifying complex queries: Views can be used to simplify complex queries by hiding the underlying complexity of the database schema. For example, a view can be created that retrieves data from multiple tables and joins them together in a single query.
Providing a customized view of the data: Views can be used to provide a customized view of the data that is tailored to the needs of a particular user or application. For example, a view can be created that retrieves only the columns that are required by a particular application.
Hiding sensitive data: Views can be used to hide sensitive data from users who do not have permission to access it. For example, a view can be created that retrieves data from a table but hides certain columns that contain sensitive data.
Simplifying security: Views can be used to simplify security by restricting access to certain columns or rows in a table. For example, a view can be created that retrieves only the rows that meet certain criteria, such as a specific date range.
Improving performance: Views can be used to improve performance by pre-computing complex calculations or aggregations. For example, a view can be created that calculates the average sales for each month, so that the calculation does not need to be performed each time the data is queried.
Conclusion
SQL views are a powerful tool that can be used to simplify complex queries, provide a customized view of the data, and improve security and performance. By creating views, you can tailor the data to the needs of a particular user or application, and hide sensitive data from unauthorized users. Views can also be used to simplify security and improve performance by pre-computing complex calculations or aggregations.