Electronic databases are organized collections of data, or information, that are stored in computer-readable form. In general, electronic databases are of two types: those that can be accessed by large mainframe computers and those that can be accessed by small personal computers. However, this distinction is becoming less important as small (in physical size) computers continue to increase in power. In general, mainframe data-bases—most of which are highly specialized—are maintained by large businesses, institutions, and government agencies. Databases can be either publicly available or private. Private databases can be accessed only by employees of the organization that maintains the databases. Public databases are designed for access by the public. Databases for personal computers typically are created and used by individuals, small businesses, and units within large businesses; they can be used for a wide variety of purposes.

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