What does data integrity ensure in a database?

Data integrity is a fundamental concept in database management that focuses on maintaining the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data throughout its lifecycle. When data integrity is upheld, it means that the data stored in the database is correct and trustworthy, which is essential for making informed decisions based on that data.

In the context of databases, accuracy refers to the data being free from errors, consistency means that data should not conflict across different tables or records, and reliability indicates that the data can be depended upon over time. Various integrity constraints, such as primary keys, foreign keys, and unique constraints, are put in place to help enforce this principle, ensuring that the data adheres to predefined rules and standards.

While consistent data formatting, error reporting for invalid data, and regular backups are important aspects of database management, they do not encompass the broader scope of data integrity. Data integrity specifically emphasizes the correctness and consistency of the data itself, making it a cornerstone of effective database design and management practices.