SQLite is a lightweight embedded database engine with the following main characteristics:
- Zero Configuration: No need to install or configure a database server, it integrates directly into the application
- Serverless Architecture: The database engine is embedded directly in the application, no separate database server process required
- Single File Storage: The entire database is stored in a single disk file, making it easy to backup and migrate
- Cross-Platform: Supports multiple operating systems including Windows, Linux, macOS
- Transaction Support: Supports ACID (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) transaction properties
- Self-Contained: No external dependencies required, ready to run after compilation
- Open Source and Free: In the public domain, can be used and distributed freely
- High Performance: For small to medium-sized applications, performance is better than many client/server databases
SQLite is suitable for mobile applications, desktop applications, embedded systems, small websites, etc., but not suitable for large-scale enterprise applications with high concurrency and multiple users writing simultaneously.