Understanding data catalog and dataplex catalog

[blueish_27]

Hi there,

I am trying to understand the difference between `data catalog` and `dataplex catalog`, and which one to use.

I found this blog post that says on July 2022 the interface of the two services was unified, with them staying two separate tools:

Today, we are excited to announce that Google Cloud Data Catalog will be unified with Dataplex into a single user interface.

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Please note that while the user experience interface is unified via this release, all existing APIs and feature functionalities of both products will continue to work as before.

However, the product overview page for data catalog starts with `Dataplex's Data Catalog feature is a central inventory of an organization's data assets. `, clearly mentioning data catalog as part of dataplex.

Can someone clarify if these are in fact one product, and if not why the first sentence here implies so?

Thanks in advance,

Azade

[jaia · Accepted solution]

The short answer is: Data Catalog and Dataplex Catalog are essentially the same product.

While the blog post mentioned a unification of the user interfaces, the underlying functionality and purpose of both products remain the same. The confusion likely arises from the way the product overview for Data Catalog is worded.

Understanding the Relationship :

• Data Catalog: This is a core feature within the Dataplex platform. It serves as a central repository for all your organization's data assets, providing metadata, lineage, and governance information.
• Dataplex: Dataplex is a broader platform that encompasses various data management capabilities, including Data Catalog, data lakes, data quality, and more. Think of Dataplex as a comprehensive solution for building and managing data lakes, while Data Catalog is a key component within that solution.

Why the confusion? The initial sentence in the Data Catalog product overview might imply that Data Catalog is a separate product entirely. However, it's important to consider the context of Dataplex being a broader platform. In essence, Data Catalog is a foundational feature within Dataplex, providing the essential cataloging and metadata management capabilities.

Key Points to Remember

• Data Catalog is a part of Dataplex.
• Both terms refer to the same core functionality.
• Dataplex offers a broader set of data management features.

When to use which term?

• Data Catalog: When referring specifically to the feature that catalogs data assets.
• Dataplex: When discussing the overall platform that includes data cataloging, data lakes, and other data management capabilities.

In conclusion, while the terminology might seem confusing at first, understanding the relationship between Data Catalog and Dataplex will help clarify any doubts. Both terms essentially refer to the same core functionality within the Dataplex platform.