Advantages and disadvantages of JSON over SQL

There are times when you may be unsure of what format to choose when transmitting data between a server and web application. Here are a few reasons why you might choose to use JSON rather than SQL.

Let's explore it -

JSON

JSON stands for Javascript Object Notation which is light-weighted designed such that humans can easily read data interchange and its execution. The JSON format was originally specified and developed by Douglas Crockford. The JSON filename extension is .json.

SQL

SQL is a domain-specific language used in programming and designed for managing data held in a relational database management system (RDBMS).  It is particularly useful in handling structured data where there are relations between different entities/variables of the data. SQL was initially developed at IBM by Donald D. Chamberlin and Raymond F. Boyce after learning about the relational model from Ted Codd in the early 1970s.

Advantages of JSON

Easy to use

JSON syntax is very easy to use. We have to use only -> as a syntax which provides us an easy parsing of the data and faster execution of the data. Since its syntax is very small and light weighted that’s the reason that it executes the response in the faster way.

Data sharing tools

JSON is the best tool for the sharing data of any size even audio, video, etc. This is because JSON stores the data in the arrays so data transfer makes easier. For this reason, JSON is a superior file format for web APIs and for web development.

Schema support

It has a wide range of supported browser compatibility with the operating systems so the applications made with the coding of JSON doesn’t require much effort to make it all browser compatible. During development, the developer thinks for the different browsers but JSON provides that functionality.

Server parsing

On the server side parsing is the important part that developers want if the parsing will be fast on the server side then the only user can get the fast response of their response so in this case JSON server-side parsing is the strong point that indicates us to use the JSON on the server side.

Objects align in code

JSON objects and code objects match, which is beneficial when quickly creating domain objects in dynamic languages.

Disadvantages of JSON

No error handling

JSON has no error handling for JSON calls. If the dynamic script insertion works, you get called and will get the response perfectly. If not inserted, nothing happens. It just fails silently. For example, you are not able to catch a 404 error from the server, Nor can you cancel or restart the request. You can, however, timeout after waiting a reasonable amount of time.

Vulnerable

JSON can be quite dangerous if used with untrusted services or untrusted browsers, because a JSON service returns a JSON response wrapped in a function call, which will be executed by the browser if it will be used with untrusted browser it can be hacked, this makes the hosting Web Application Vulnerable to a variety of attacks.

Limited tools

If you are going to use JSON services, it’s very important to be aware of the threats which JSON have in that and also be aware of the things which can protect it. JSON only have limited supported tools which we can use during JSON development.

Narrow focus

No support for formal grammar definition, hence interfaces contracts are hard to communicate and enforce. No support in Web services -related products (application servers, ESBs, etc). No namespace support, hence poor extensibility.

Advantages of SQL

High speed

Using the SQL queries, the user can quickly and efficiently retrieve a large number of records from a database.

Interactive language

SQL is a domain language used to communicate with the database. It is also used to receive answers to the complex questions in seconds.

Portability

SQL can be used in laptops, PCs, servers and even some mobile phones.

No coding needed

In standard SQL, it is very easy to manage the database system. It doesn't require a substantial amount of code to manage the database system.

Multiple data views

Using the SQL language, the users can make different views of the database structure.

Disadvantages of SQL

Complex interface

SQL has a complex interface that makes it difficult for some users to access it.

Cost

The operating cost of some SQL versions makes it difficult for some programs to access it.

Partial control

The programmers who use SQL doesn’t have full control over the database because of the hidden business rules.

You may have to do a little more work to work with JSON in strongly typed languages like Scala or Elm, but the widespread adoption of JSON means there are libraries and utilities to help you through all of the hardest parts. It all depends on your current setup of systems and the requirements. If you are looking for table oriented structure then go for SQL, whereas for document-oriented approach use JSON format.