What are the challenges of scalability in relational databases?

What are the challenges of scalability in relational databases?

Scalability in relational databases often faces challenges like limited vertical scaling, complex sharding, and performance bottlenecks.

Can you explain vertical and horizontal scaling?

Vertical scaling involves adding more resources to a single server, while horizontal scaling means adding more servers to distribute the load.

What are some strategies to improve scalability?

Strategies include database partitioning, using caching mechanisms, and optimizing queries to reduce load.

Are there specific databases that handle scalability better?

Yes, databases like PostgreSQL and MySQL can be optimized for scalability, but NoSQL databases often handle it more flexibly.

What role does indexing play in scalability?

Indexing improves query performance, which can significantly enhance scalability by reducing the time needed to access data.