Apache Parquet vs Oracle PL/SQL: What are the differences?

Introduction

In this article, we will discuss the key differences between Apache Parquet and Oracle PL/SQL, two technologies commonly used in the field of data processing and management.

1. File Format: Apache Parquet is a columnar storage file format designed for big data processing. It uses a highly efficient compression algorithm that enables faster reading and writing of data. On the other hand, Oracle PL/SQL is a procedural language designed for Oracle database management systems. It is used primarily for writing stored procedures and functions within the database.

2. Data Organization: Parquet organizes data in a columnar format, where each column is stored separately. This allows for efficient data compression and retrieval, especially when dealing with large datasets and complex queries. PL/SQL, on the other hand, organizes data in a row-based format, where each row is stored together. This makes it more suitable for traditional relational database operations.

3. Data Types: Parquet supports a wide range of data types, including primitive types like integers, floats, and strings, as well as complex types like arrays and maps. PL/SQL, on the other hand, supports a similar range of data types but is primarily focused on relational data types such as VARCHAR2, NUMBER, and DATE.

4. Processing Model: Parquet is designed to work well with distributed processing frameworks like Apache Spark and Apache Hadoop. It leverages parallel processing and distributed storage to improve query performance and scalability. PL/SQL, on the other hand, is executed within the Oracle database itself and is optimized for efficient data manipulation and retrieval within a single database server.

5. Language Features: PL/SQL is a full-fledged programming language with features like control structures, exception handling, and modular code organization. It provides a rich set of built-in functions and packages for interacting with the Oracle database. Parquet, on the other hand, is not a programming language but rather a file format and storage optimization technique.

6. Vendor Lock-in: Oracle PL/SQL is tightly integrated with Oracle database systems and is specific to the Oracle ecosystem. This can result in vendor lock-in, as applications written in PL/SQL may not be easily portable to other database platforms. Parquet, on the other hand, is an open-source file format that can be used with different processing frameworks and databases, reducing vendor lock-in.

In summary, Apache Parquet is a columnar storage file format optimized for big data processing and works well with distributed processing frameworks. Oracle PL/SQL, on the other hand, is a procedural language designed for Oracle database management systems, providing functionality for stored procedures and functions within the database.