This document discusses column-oriented NoSQL databases and Cassandra. It begins with a review of NoSQL and an overview of key-value and column-oriented database models. It then provides details on Cassandra, including its data model, architecture, origins at Facebook, and suitability for large datasets. Examples are given of how Cassandra could be used for user profiles, shopping carts, and large datasets. Comparisons are made to MySQL and reasons for choosing Cassandra are outlined.