This document provides an overview of database management systems (DBMS). It discusses the characteristics of databases, including structured data, data redundancy control, data sharing, and data independence. It also lists common database applications like banking, universities, and e-commerce. The document explains the differences between data and information, and outlines some disadvantages of file-oriented systems like data redundancy and isolation. Finally, it discusses the need for DBMS to manage large data, ensure data safety, and allow shared access while avoiding anomalies. DBMS provide advantages over file systems such as data independence, efficient access, integrity, security, and concurrent access.