Data Access Object
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In computer software, a Data Access Object (DAO) is a component which provides a common interface between the application and one or more data storage devices, such as a database or file. The term is most frequently applied to the Data Access Object design pattern.
Data Access Objects was also used by Microsoft (typically abbreviated to DAO), as the name of a library they created based on this pattern.
Why use data access objects?
The advantage of using data access objects is that any business object (which contains application or operation specific details) does not require direct knowledge of the final destination for the information is manipulates. As a result, if it is neccessary to change where or how that data is stored that modification can be made without needing to change the main application.
External links
- Core J2EE Patterns - Data Access Object (http://java.sun.com/blueprints/corej2eepatterns/Patterns/DataAccessObject.html)