Tenant databases vs. SystemDB in HANA Express Express Edition

[Former Member]

Hi,

I get the concept of MDC at a high level, but I'm unclear whether they are a strict necessity, or whether the SystemDB is an appropriate container. This tutorial video would make it seem that all work is to be done directly with SystemDB.

In my particular situation, I don't think I would need more than one container. Should I work with SystemDB, or should I create a tenant database first? My original instinct would be to leave SystemDB alone.

I would go ahead and create a tenant database either way, but I'm concerned about the memory impact it may have on my VM, as I don't have much to spare.

Any recommendations?

[pfefferf]

Hello Eric,

the system database is the database for storing the data and users to be able to manage the HANA system. In general for production systems it is not recommended to use it for your business application stuff. But in case you just wanna try out things with your HANA express installation of course the system database can be used. As you said each additional tenant database requires additional resources. With not much available resources I would also not create/activate and additional tenant database for just some testings.

Please consider also the restrictions mentioned for the system database (and some other information) in the SAP HANA Admin Guide.

In SAP HANA Q&A note 2101244 you can also find some more answers to common MDC questions.

Best Regards,
Florian