Essential readings about the geodatabase

If you are new to geodatabases or want to learn more, the following topics provide a conceptual overview to get you started.

Help contents	Notes
An overview of the geodatabase	The topics in this section of the help describe the fundamental contents for every geodatabase: tables, features, and rasters. Start with the topic named Table basics and read all the following topics in this help section.
The architecture of the geodatabase	The architecture of a geodatabase explains the geodatabase storage model and how it leverages relational database technology. This information is not required to use the geodatabase. It provides good background information for the geodatabase and how you can leverage it in your daily use.
Designing a geodatabase	This is a practical overview on design and a simple procedure you can follow to help you build your geodatabase.
Creating a geodatabase	How you create a geodatabase varies by the type of geodatabase you want to use. Create a file geodatabase or personal geodatabase in a local folder. Create a desktop or workgroup geodatabase on a database server. Create an enterprise geodatabase in IBM Db2, IBM Informix, Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, or PostgreSQL.
Feature class design	This feature class design topic helps to explain why you would extend a feature class with additional capabilities (such as a topology, network, or terrain) and points you to more information on implementation.
Adding datasets and other geodatabase elements	To begin populating your geodatabase with data, see An overview of adding datasets to the geodatabase. When you want to progress further—for example, to add a topology, geometric network, geocoding locator, or annotation—refer to the Data Types section of the help.
Editing	For information on updating the data in your geodatabase, see the topics in the Editing section.
Managing distributed data	When you work with multiuser geodatabases and want to distribute copies of your geodatabase across (and even outside) your organization, you can use replication.
Administering geodatabases	Configuring and maintaining geodatabases are covered in the Administering geodatabases topics.
Using SQL with geodatabases	These topics cover using SQL clients to access data in enterprise geodatabases. This section also covers using SQL to access the ST_Geometry type in Oracle, PostgreSQL, and SQLite.