When should I use indexes in my database?

When should I use indexes in my database?

Indexes are used to speed up the retrieval of rows from a database table. You should use them when you have large datasets and frequently query specific columns.

Can you give me an example of when an index would be beneficial?

Sure! If you have a table of customers and often search by their last name, creating an index on the last name column can significantly improve query performance.

Are there any downsides to using indexes?

Yes, while indexes improve read performance, they can slow down write operations like INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE because the index also needs to be updated.

How do I decide which columns to index?

Focus on columns that are frequently used in WHERE clauses, JOIN conditions, or as part of an ORDER BY statement.

Is there a limit to how many indexes I can create?

Most database systems have a limit, but it's generally best to use indexes judiciously to avoid performance issues.