14/03/2024
The Nightmare of Database Deadlocks
A database deadlock occurs when two or more transactions in a database system hold locks on resources the others need. Each transaction waits for the others to release their locks, and just like two drivers who are not sure who has the right of way, none can proceed.
It would be lovely to be able to enumerate the causes of a database deadlock and address all of them. Sadly, it’s way too complex. It can be said, though, that a database deadlock is most likely to stem from poor application design, lack of proper transaction management, or the inevitable complexity of highly concurrent systems.