What is the benefit of using triggers in a database?

Using triggers in a database provides significant benefits by automating responses to changes in data. A trigger is a set of instructions that are automatically executed in response to certain events on a particular table or view, such as insertions, updates, or deletions. This functionality allows developers to enforce business rules, maintain data integrity, or perform automatic logging without requiring explicit user intervention.

For instance, if a record is updated or deleted, a trigger can automatically log the change in an audit table, update related tables, or enforce constraints that may not be explicitly managed through standard database functionalities. This automation not only enhances efficiency by eliminating the need for manual checks or additional scripts but also ensures that data management tasks are consistently applied across the database operation.

The other options listed do not accurately capture the primary purpose of triggers. Viewing data in real-time is more associated with querying techniques rather than triggers. Preventing unauthorized access typically falls under database security measures like authentication and access control, which are separate from what triggers accomplish. Writing complex queries is more related to the capabilities of SQL and query optimization rather than the specific function of triggers. Thus, the choice highlighting automation of responses to changes aligns directly with the core functionality of triggers within database management systems.