Sequential Access Methods
Sequential Access Methods refer to techniques for accessing data in a specific order, typically from the beginning to the end of a dataset. This approach is commonly used in data storage systems, such as tape drives and file systems, where data is read or written in a linear sequence. It is efficient for processing large volumes of data that need to be accessed in a predetermined order.
These methods are often contrasted with random access methods, which allow data to be accessed in any order. Sequential access is particularly useful for tasks like batch processing and data streaming, where the entire dataset is processed in a continuous flow, minimizing the overhead of seeking individual data points.