Optimizing Database Performance: Techniques to Optimize the Efficiency of Database Systems and Applications

Most organizations monitor and tune the performance of their IT infrastructure. This infrastructure encompasses servers, networks, applications, desktops, and databases. However, the performance management steps taken are usually reactive. A user calls with a response-time problem. A table runs out of storage. The batch window extends into the day. Someone submitted a query that just won’t stop running. Those of you in the trenches can relate—you’ve been there, done that.

It is generally accepted that tuning to achieve high performance is a good thing when it comes to IT systems. But rarely does anybody take the time to define what is meant by the term “performance.” One of the first things this book does is to define the elements of database performance. After grasping the basic concepts, the book expands to detail the components and issues that contribute to how your database systems and application perform. It defines the four levels of database performance and offer in-depth guidance on the components of each, as well as the steps that can be taken to not only review database performance, but to optimize the systems and applications accessing your databases.

Armed with the information in this book you can confidently implement, maintain, and tune your databases and applications to ensure their effectiveness and efficiency. In other words, ensure optimal database performance!