20/06/2024

Execution plans choose the way in which SQL queries are executed by the database engine. As such, they are a difference between a smoothly running database and one that stumbles under load. Sometimes, an execution plan changes, for various reasons—often silently and without warning—and the far-reaching fallout can be huge.

The most immediate impact seen as the execution plan changes is a decline in query performance. A query that once ran smoothly in milliseconds might, due to an altered plan, start consuming seconds. This increase in query time can cascade into longer load times for applications, frustrated end-users, and severe financial repercussions in high-stakes environments such as financial trading platforms or real-time data services.

• Blog
• Microsoft SQL
• Performance Monitor

13/06/2024

PostgreSQL vs Oracle — an open-source framework that champions adaptability and accessibility versus a proprietary system designed for high throughput and scalability in enterprise environments.  These two database systems, while both engineered to manage vast amounts of data, diverge significantly in their approach, philosophy, and intended user base.

PostgreSQL is a community-driven, flexible model that supports customization and supports innovation, making it ideal for entities that value agile and cost-effective solutions. Oracle, in contrast, targets large-scale operations with its performance-oriented architecture that ensures reliability and robustness under heavy loads.

• Blog
• Oracle
• PostgreSQL

06/06/2024

If no one sees the database issues, do they really happen?  – Contrary to the popular philosophical dilemma, this question can be answered quite easily – Absolutely yes. Unseen or unmonitored problems in database systems do occur and can indeed cause significant disruptions. It doesn’t matter if they’re not immediately apparent. Without monitoring of the database performance metrics and proactive management, these underlying issues can compound, leading to decreased performance, potential data loss, and even system failures that by their nature demand urgent and often extensive interventions to rectify.

The cost of ignoring database performance metrics is just too great.

• Blog
• Microsoft SQL
• Oracle
• Performance Monitor
• PostgreSQL

30/05/2024

As of today, the Oracle database is still the most popular database out there, with a rating score of 1,240.88. Considering all of the factors – its powerful and comprehensive features that cater to large-scale enterprise needs, it comes as no surprise.

However, having managed and used numerous Oracle databases over time, we’ve observed several recurring frustrations — problems with Oracle database that can pose significant challenges for its users. From the complex and often opaque licensing structure to high costs and aggressive sales tactics, taking care of the Oracle ecosystem requires constant awareness and a willingness to adapt, at any second. 

• Blog
• Oracle

23/05/2024

On the 20th of April, query load times usually ranged from 12 to 15 seconds per snapshot, but there was a notable spike exceeding 2,000 seconds during certain periods. This anomaly suggested a deeper issue, prompting a detailed investigation. By examining the correlation between locks and application issues, executions, disk reads, and buffer writes, a significant overlap was found between increased query durations and intensified locking issues. Accessing the lock history tab provided detailed data on each lock event, including the time, duration, and specific database elements affected.

• Blog
• Performance Monitor