School of Information Systems

Database Tuning: Optimising Performance and Improving Efficiency

What is Database Tuning?

Database tuning or database performance tuning is a set of processes for enhancing database systems for increased efficiency and performance. Database tuning means making adjustments in the database configuration, query design, indexing, and other system parameters to achieve maximum performance. By tuning databases, businesses can achieve faster analytics and data retrieval response times, it will result in improved user experiences and lead to improved decision-making.

Database Tuning Technique

There are few techniques that can be done, such as:

  1. Make minor adjustments to queries, queries can be optimized in various ways. However, one of the most important things is to be patient and thorough. Start with basic adjustments and then move on to higher levels. You can customize the index or add a simple skip list to the query.
  2. Statistics should be up to date, statistics can be used to generate effective execution plans for performance tuning. However, this will only be accurate if the statistics used are current. If the statistics are outdated, the execution plan may not be optimized to meet current problems.
  3. Don’t use the leading wildcards, wildcard parameters can cause the database engine to scan the entire table, even if indexed fields exist. This scan can take a long time and cause poor performance, especially for parallel queries.
  4. Use Constraints, constraints are one of the most effective ways to improve query performance. However, this performance increase comes at a cost, namely more significant memory usage. Therefore, it is essential to consider your needs before implementing restrictions.
  5. Increase memory, one way to improve SQL database performance is to provide more memory. More memory can improve database efficiency, which in turn can improve performance.
  6. Defragment data, data defragmentation is one of the best ways to improve database performance. Over time, data in a database can become fragmented due to frequent writing and deletion. This can slow down the data retrieval process because it makes it more difficult for a query to find the information it is looking for. Data defragmentation reunites relevant data and eliminates index page issues. As a result, I/O-related operations will run faster.
  7. Adjust queries
  8. Review access, after ensuring the database hardware functions correctly, the next step is reviewing database access. This step includes determining which applications and clients can access the database. If one of your services or applications experiences poor database performance, you should wait to conclude that the service or application is responsible. One client may also be experiencing poor performance, or the entire database is experiencing problems. Therefore, you need to dig deeper to find out who has access to the database and whether just one service is experiencing the issue.

Database Tuning Function and Feature

  1. Refining SQL Queries to Accelerate Database Operations: Refining SQL queries to accelerate database operations directly connects query optimization to database efficiency.
  2. Building and Maintaining Data Indexes for Accelerated Performance: Building and maintaining data indexes for accelerated performance means highlighting the ongoing index management process for optimal results.
  3. Optimising Resource Utilisation: Optimizing resource utilization means aligning Memory, CPU, and Disk Resources with Performance Needs. It means focuses on aligning resource allocation with specific requirements.
  4. Blueprinting for Performance: Blueprinting for performance means crafting database schemas that optimize data flow. It highlights the role of schema design in shaping data retrieval and processing.
  5. Organizing Data Buffets: Organizing data buffets and partitioning tables for efficient information access focuses on addressing performance issues caused by large tables.

Performance

Database performance tuning is critical to ensure that the database functions smoothly and efficiently. By implementing the proper customization techniques, businesses can ensure that their databases can handle large data loads and deliver fast results. Regular database performance monitoring and evaluation can help identify performance issues and improve overall efficiency.

References:

Dremio. (2023, November 3). Database Performance Tuning | Dremio. https://www.dremio.com/wiki/database-performance-tuning/#:~:text=What%20is%20Database%20Performance%20Tuning,making%20and%20enhanced%20user%20experiences

CyberPanel. (2022, November 23). 11 Highly effective database performance tuning techniques. CyberPanel. https://cyberpanel.net/blog/11-highly-effective-database-performance-tuning-techniques

Devyano Luhukay & Abigaille Ollivia Wiriawan