Apache CouchDB is a free, self-hosted document database for storing named documents and accessing them through a RESTful HTTP API. Documents can contain fields and binary attachments, and the database does not require a fixed schema. Its query engine supports views defined with JavaScript map functions and optional reduce functions. CouchDB incrementally synchronizes databases in both directions between peers, including after periods without a connection. The project describes this replication as useful for offline-first applications across servers, phones, and browsers; PouchDB can replicate data with CouchDB from mobile devices and web browsers. A cluster can present one logical database across multiple servers or virtual machines for added capacity and high availability. CouchDB uses an append-only file design, and document updates are described as ACID and all-or-nothing. Security features include administrator accounts, basic and cookie authentication, reader access controls, and JavaScript validation of document updates. Conflicting revisions can be handled manually or automatically. The software is licensed under Apache License 2.0.
Who it is for
It suits developers and organizations that want a self-hosted document database with a RESTful API. Its replication options may fit applications that need to work across connected and intermittently disconnected devices.
What is good
- Documents can include fields and binary attachments.
- Incremental replication supports synchronization in both directions.
- Clusters can span multiple servers or virtual machines.
- Security features include authentication and reader access controls.
- Free software under Apache License 2.0.
What to know first
- It is self-hosted on servers or virtual machines.
- Conflicting document revisions may need resolution.
- Support is offered through a user mailing list.
Verdict
Apache CouchDB offers a flexible document model, replication, and clustering in free self-hosted software. It is a fit for teams comfortable operating their own database and managing any conflicting revisions.
Apache CouchDB plans and pricing
All plansCompared on database software
- Free plan
- Yes
