Streaming SQL refers to the use of SQL (Structured Query Language) or SQL-like languages to define and execute continuous queries on unbounded streams of data. It extends the familiar declarative power of SQL, traditionally used for batch processing on stored datasets in relational databases, to the domain of real-time data processing.
Instead of querying static tables that return a fixed result set, Streaming SQL queries operate continuously on incoming data events, producing results that are incrementally updated or emitted as new data arrives.
RisingWave is a distributed streaming database that uses PostgreSQL-compatible Streaming SQL as its primary interface. This means users can:
RisingWave's SQL implementation is designed to be highly compatible with PostgreSQL syntax, making it easy for users familiar with PostgreSQL to get started with stream processing.
Despite these challenges, Streaming SQL has become a dominant paradigm for developing real-time data processing applications due to its power, accessibility, and developer productivity.