Distributed database fundamentals In a homogeneous distributed database system, which description is most accurate about the DBMS software at each site and how the data are laid out across participating nodes?

Introduction / Context:
A distributed database stores logically related data across multiple networked sites. A key classification is whether the participating sites run the same database engine (homogeneous) or different engines (heterogeneous). Understanding this distinction helps you reason about transparency, query processing, and administration in distributed systems.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The term “homogeneous” refers to the DBMS software stack at each site.
• We are discussing a distributed database, so data are logically one database but physically spread.
• Sites cooperate through a distributed DBMS layer that coordinates queries and transactions.

Concept / Approach:

In a homogeneous distributed DBMS, every node runs the same DBMS product and version (or compatible variants). This uniformity simplifies metadata sharing, query optimization, and two-phase commit because catalogs, SQL dialects, and transaction semantics align. Since it is distributed, data are fragmented and/or replicated across nodes; the layer provides transparency for location, fragmentation, and sometimes replication.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Standard references define homogeneous DDBMS as uniform DBMS software across nodes with distribution of data; heterogeneity introduces differing engines, catalogs, and gateways to reconcile dialects and semantics.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Same DBMS but not distributed: contradicts the “distributed database” premise.
• Different DBMS (c or d): describes heterogeneous, not homogeneous.
• Shared filesystem only: lacks DBMS-level distribution semantics.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing “homogeneous” with “centralized.” Homogeneous still distributes data.
• Assuming identical hardware is required; homogeneity is about DBMS software, not servers.

Final Answer:

The same DBMS is used at every site, and data are distributed across the participating nodes.