Network Model
The Network Model is a database structure that organizes data using a graph, where entities are represented as nodes and relationships as edges. This model allows for more complex relationships between data compared to traditional hierarchical models. It is particularly useful for applications that require many-to-many relationships, such as telecommunications and transportation systems.
In the Network Model, data is accessed through pointers, which connect different records. This structure enables efficient navigation and retrieval of related data. The model was popularized in the 1970s and is often associated with the CODASYL approach, which aimed to standardize database management systems.