# Purpose of this guide

This guide explains how to use the core Derby technology and is for developers building Derby applications.

It describes basic Derby concepts, such as how you create and access Derby databases through JDBC routines and how you can deploy Derby applications.

When an application embeds Derby, application users take on the role of database administrator and must maintain the integrity of the database. See "Part Two: Derby Administration Guide" in the Derby Server and Administration Guide for information on administrative tasks such as backing up and restoring databases. In particular, see the topic "Maintaining database integrity" for information on preventing database corruption. You will need to make this information available to users of your application.

Parent topic: About this guide