Sitecore utilizes several databases with various purposes. What data is stored in the Master database?

The Master database is the primary authoring database in a Sitecore environment. It serves as the central repository for all content and layout information. Crucially, it contains every version of every item, including content that is currently in a workflow state, has not been approved, or has not yet been published to the live website. Content editors and developers interact with the Master database through the Sitecore Content Editor and Experience Editor to create, manage, and preview content before it goes live.

A. Configuration information for Sitecore user interfaces, such as the Content Editor and Experience Editor, is stored in the Core database, not the Master database.

B. The Web database stores only the latest published versions of items. It is the database that the live website reads from to display content to visitors.

C. The .NET membership provider tables, which manage users, roles, and security settings, are located in the Core database, which handles system and application data.

1. Sitecore Documentation: The Sitecore databases. This document explicitly states

"The Master database contains all versions of all content. The Master database is the authoring database – when you edit content in the Content Editor

you edit the Master database."

Source: Sitecore 10.0 Documentation

Platform architecture

Data stores

The Sitecore databases.

2. Sitecore Documentation: The Core database. This section details the contents of the Core database

confirming it stores UI definitions and security tables. It states

"The Core database contains all Sitecore settings... It also contains the membership-related tables that drive the security system (users

roles

and so on)."

Source: Sitecore 10.0 Documentation

Platform architecture

Data stores

The Core database.

3. Sitecore Documentation: The Web database. This section defines the purpose of the Web database. It states

"The Web database only contains the latest published version of the content. This is the database that the live website uses."

Source: Sitecore 10.0 Documentation

Platform architecture

Data stores

The Web database.