Data & Databases
Key-value store
A database that retrieves values using unique keys.
Example
A session store retrieves a shopping cart using one unique key.
Why it matters
It makes direct lookups simple when an application already knows the identifier.
You'll hear it
“Use the session key to find its saved settings.”
Can you control it?
Set by the team
The people building or running the AI choose this setup. An everyday user generally needs their help to change how this part works.
Common questions
- Does knowing a key always mean the value exists?
- No. It may have expired, been removed or never been stored.
- Can values change while their key stays the same?
- Yes. The identifier can remain stable while the stored information is updated.
- Is this ideal for every complex search?
- Not necessarily. Looking across many values can need additional features or another design.