LiteDB

What LiteDB is

LiteDB is a free, open-source NoSQL document database for .NET, delivered as a single DLL and designed for embedded use without a separate server. It stores data in one datafile and supports ACID transactions, with recovery from write failures through WAL mode. Queries can use SQL-like commands, LINQ or query EXPLAIN plans. LiteDB maps POCO classes to BsonDocument and provides a fluent API for custom mapping. Its documented uses include mobile apps, desktop and local applications, application file formats, web applications and per-user data stores. FileStorage stores files and streams in the database, subject to a 16 MB limit for each root BSON document. LiteDB describes itself as thread-safe, with cross-collection transactions, no reader locks and per-collection writer locks. Datafiles can be password-protected using salted AES encryption; the documentation specifies ECB mode, and changing or removing a password requires rebuilding the datafile. LiteDB is free for commercial use under the MIT License. It is installable through NuGet, and LiteDB.Studio is linked as an administration tool. The project directs users to GitHub issues, Gitter and Stack Overflow for community help.

Who it suits

LiteDB suits .NET developers who need an embedded document database for applications or per-user data stores. Its single-file delivery and free commercial-use license may fit projects that want to manage their own deployment.

Getting started

1. Open the LiteDB website.
2. Install LiteDB through NuGet.
3. Use LiteDB.Studio, linked by the project, as an administration tool for its SQL commands.
4. Ask the community for help through GitHub issues, Gitter chat, or Stack Overflow.

Verdict

LiteDB combines embedded storage, transaction support and multiple query options in a single DLL. Consider the documented document-size limit and encryption details when planning how to store and protect data.