Question

I’m developing web app that user can save his/her work to server. The data will be saved is in variable-length binary form, it’s size mostly under 20KB (sometimes little bigger < 100KB). The data will often be changed / updated.

I have 2 options saving the data in server: as BLOB (mysql) or as filesystem with reference to its filepath stored in db server. I heard that each option have pro and cons.

Which is best for my app ?

Thanks

Answer 1

I’d probably go for the DB approach. The speed difference isn’t likely to be that much, and I’m a big fan of having all data stored in one place. It’s much easier to get a consistent back up of a database then it is to backup a database, filesystem, and associated data (and preserve consistency)

It also provides a uniform access method, consistent permissions, and allows you to access things remotely without setting up a separate service.

That said, it may be worth your while to keep your options open and not tie it to the db too tightly in case you want to move later.