What Is Apache Spark and When Should You Use It?
By Karthick Selvam · Published · Updated
Apache Spark is an open-source engine for processing large datasets in parallel across a cluster.
In one line
Spark splits data into partitions and processes them across many machines, keeping intermediate data in memory where possible.
APIs
DataFrames and Spark SQL are the most common; PySpark is the Python API. Structured Streaming handles streaming data.
When it fits
When data outgrows a single machine, or when you want one engine for batch, SQL and streaming.
When it does not
For small datasets, a warehouse query or single-node tool is simpler and cheaper.
Frequently asked questions
Is Spark the same as Databricks?
Databricks is a commercial platform founded by Spark's creators that runs Spark among other services.
Related programmes
- Data Engineering Foundations
- Apache Spark & PySpark for Data Engineers
- Databricks & Lakehouse Engineering
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