Definition
A logical partitioning mechanism within a vector database that isolates a subset of vectors, enabling scoped queries and multi-tenant data management within a single physical index. It ensures that retrieval operations are restricted to a specific segment of the high-dimensional space, optimizing search speed and data security.
In RAG, a namespace is a virtual silo for embeddings, not a programming scope or a Kubernetes resource boundary.
"Individual locked drawers within a single large filing cabinet, where a search is restricted to only one drawer at a time."
- Vector Index(Prerequisite)
- Multi-tenancy(Architectural Pattern)
- Metadata Filtering(Component/Alternative)
Conceptual Overview
A logical partitioning mechanism within a vector database that isolates a subset of vectors, enabling scoped queries and multi-tenant data management within a single physical index. It ensures that retrieval operations are restricted to a specific segment of the high-dimensional space, optimizing search speed and data security.
Disambiguation
In RAG, a namespace is a virtual silo for embeddings, not a programming scope or a Kubernetes resource boundary.
Visual Analog
Individual locked drawers within a single large filing cabinet, where a search is restricted to only one drawer at a time.