What are database stored procedures?

Database stored procedures are essentially prewritten functions that are stored directly within the database. They consist of a set of SQL statements that can be executed as a single unit, allowing for efficient and reusable database operations. By encapsulating business logic within these stored procedures, developers can promote code reusability, maintainability, and security, as access to the underlying table structures can be controlled through the stored procedure. This makes it easier to manage complex operations and maintain consistency in how data is handled across applications.

Unlike temporary scripts used for processing transactions, stored procedures are permanently saved in the database, facilitating repeated use without the need for rewriting the same code. They are also distinct from data backup methods, which focus on preserving data integrity and ensuring recovery rather than executing predefined actions. Additionally, while stored procedures can support analytics indirectly through data manipulation, they are not specifically designed as tools for real-time analytics but rather for executing structured operations on the data itself.