Snowflake Certification Practice Test

Is Data Sharing in Snowflake metadata only?

1. True

2. False

3. Only in certain regions

4. Requires data updates

The correct answer is: True

Data sharing in Snowflake is indeed classified as metadata only because it facilitates the sharing of data without the need for physical data movement. When organizations use Snowflake for data sharing, they create a shared database that allows different Snowflake accounts to access the same data simultaneously while maintaining data security and governance. This mechanism operates using an architecture where shared data remains in the original data location, and any updates made to the data are immediately available to all consumers of the shared data. This efficiency is rooted in the way Snowflake handles data by referencing the original data directly, thus minimizing redundancy and optimizing storage and accessibility. In this context, metadata management involves providing access controls, enabling data governance, and ensuring that data is updated consistently without duplicating the data itself. Therefore, the classification of data sharing as metadata only reflects how Snowflake manages and facilitates the sharing of data efficiently and securely.