What is sharding and how does it improve performance?

What is sharding and how does it improve performance?

Sharding is a database architecture pattern that splits data into smaller, more manageable pieces called shards. This allows for better performance by distributing the load across multiple servers.

Can you explain how sharding affects read and write operations?

Certainly! Sharding can significantly enhance read and write operations by allowing multiple servers to handle requests simultaneously, reducing bottlenecks.

Are there any downsides to implementing sharding?

Yes, sharding can introduce complexity in data management and may require additional effort for data consistency and balancing the load across shards.

How do I decide the optimal shard size?

The optimal shard size depends on your application's access patterns and data volume. It's often a balance between too many small shards and too few large ones.