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Databases

What is a database?
What databases do you support?
Does Coastline supply the raw database file
What about SQL?
Can I put a database in my Plan A account?
What is a DSN?
What is the difference between a system DSN and a systemless DSN?
Why do I get a "method not allowed" error?
Can I synchronize my database online?
Why do I get errors when I try to update my database from my secure folder?

What is a database?
A database is a file or system of files that store tables of data.  The database includes ways of inputting, accessing and outputting data, as well.  You can usually run reports, queries and filters, which help organize and process the data collected.  

What databases do you support?
Coastline supports Microsoft Access databases (.mdb files) for clients signed up for our Plan B account. 

Does Coastline supply the raw database?
No, you will need to upload your database.

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What about SQL?
We support MySQL on our newest servers. If you would like to use MySQL and are unsure whether it is available to you or not, please contact Customer Support.  If you do not have MySQL available to you, we would be happy to switch your server so you can use it.

Can I put a database in my Plan A account?
The only type of database you can use in a Plan A account is for read-only information.  You can not get write permissions or System DSNs with a Plan A account.  However, you are welcome to read information and use systemless DSNs.

What is a DSN?
A DSN is a short cut that points to a database.  If you want to update the location of the database you only have to change the DSN, not the many documents that might use the DSN.  

What is the difference between a system DSN and a systemless DSN?
A system DSN is set up in a special service called an ODBC, which manages the drivers and DSNs for the entire server.  You don't need to request anything but the permission changes for systemless DSNs.

Why do I get a "method not allowed" error?
You are most likely trying to write to a text file in a folder without the proper permissions applied.  Contact us at support@coastline.com to let us know which folder the text file is in so we can apply the appropriate permission.  Just be careful where you place the text file, however, because all of the other files in that folder will also be write-able.  This means your html file will be editable by anybody browsing your site.

Can I synchronize my database online?
No.  To update your database you will need to download the old and upload a new.

Why do I get errors when I try to update my database from my secure folder?
When you are working with a page in a secure folder, all of the information that page uses or accesses must be in the secure folder as well, or else you will get many, many error messages (If you're lucky) or absolutionely nothing at all.

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