Before installing MongoDB, understand the different ways you can run it. MongoDB can be used as a locally managed database server, a containerized development service, or a managed cloud deployment.

1. MongoDB Atlas

MongoDB Atlas is a managed database service. You provision a database deployment, configure network access and database users, and connect using a connection string.

Atlas is convenient when developing applications that need a remotely accessible database without requiring you to maintain the underlying database server yourself.

Typical uses include:

• Connecting a local Node.js application to a cloud database.
• Hosting development and production databases.
• Learning how database access restrictions and credentials work.
• Practicing database administration through a managed interface.

Official resource: https://www.mongodb.com/products/platform/atlas-database

2. MongoDB Community Server

MongoDB Community Server allows you to run MongoDB on your own machine or on infrastructure that you administer.

It is useful for:

• Practicing queries without relying on an internet connection.
• Understanding how a MongoDB server runs.
• Developing applications against a local database.
• Testing data models before deploying them elsewhere.

Official resource: https://www.mongodb.com/try/download/community

3. MongoDB with Docker

Docker allows you to run MongoDB inside a container. A container can make the development environment reproducible across machines.

A persistent Docker volume is important because container filesystems are not a substitute for deliberate data persistence. Removing a container does not remove a separately managed named volume, but removing the volume destroys the data stored in it.

4. MongoDB Shell

mongosh is the interactive command-line shell for MongoDB. It allows you to connect to a server, select databases, execute queries, inspect collections, and run supported administrative commands.

Official resource: https://www.mongodb.com/docs/mongodb-shell/

Which option should you choose?

For a beginner, Atlas is convenient if you prefer a managed service. A local server is useful when you want direct control, and Docker is useful when you want a repeatable development environment.

You do not need to install all three. Choose one working environment and use it throughout the initial chapters.