3.4 Data Types

An integer is a whole number with no decimal places. It is used for counting quantities.

Examples: number of users, number of failed login attempts.

A real data type stores numbers that include decimal values. It is used when greater precision is required.

Examples: CPU usage percentage, temperature readings.

A character data type stores a single symbol such as a letter, number, or punctuation mark.

Examples: grade codes, status flags.

A string is a sequence of characters used to store text.

Examples: usernames, error messages, device names.

A Boolean data type stores one of two values: true or false. It is used for decision‑making and logical conditions.

Examples: access granted (true/false), system online (true/false).

The date data type stores calendar dates and timestamps.

Examples: last login date, system update time.

A Blob (Binary Large Object) stores large amounts of unstructured data.

Examples: images, audio files, video recordings.

Structured data uses defined data types such as integers, strings, and dates. Unstructured data often uses blobs to store information that does not fit into fixed fields.

Data transformation often involves converting data from one type to another, such as changing text to numeric data or extracting values from unstructured data for analysis.

Selecting appropriate data types and structures ensures efficient processing, accurate analysis, and secure handling of information in digital support and security environments.