A flat-file database stores records in a simple file without structures for indexing or recognizing relationships between records. It has disadvantages like being harder to update and query. A relational database separates logical and physical structures and makes it easy to sort and find structured data. However, it can only store tabular data, limiting complex relationships. A hierarchical database organizes data in a tree structure with parent-child relationships. It has advantages for efficiency but rigid structure and data duplication. A network database uses a graph schema to flexibly represent object relationships but requires more complex management.