How does locking work in database systems?

Can you explain how locking works in database systems?

Sure! Locking in database systems is a mechanism to control access to data. It prevents multiple transactions from modifying the same data simultaneously, which can lead to inconsistencies.

What are the different types of locks?

There are mainly two types of locks: shared locks and exclusive locks. Shared locks allow multiple transactions to read data, while exclusive locks prevent others from accessing the data until the lock is released.

How do locks affect database performance?

Locks can impact performance by causing delays if many transactions are waiting for a lock to be released. However, they are essential for maintaining data integrity.

What happens if a transaction holds a lock for too long?

If a transaction holds a lock for too long, it can lead to deadlocks or timeouts, where other transactions are unable to proceed, potentially causing performance issues.