Improve MySQL Database Performance with Query Attributes

Query attributes have certain uses in a database, the most familiar of which is the addition of metadata to statements. This metadata offers context that helps users understand the purpose behind generating the statement in question.

Generally, this requires comment insertion alongside the attributes at the beginning of the statement. As a result, the MySQL parser leaves the comment alone, nor does the comment leave an impact on query semantics. However, it helps improve MySQL database performance since many tools are capable of deriving the comments.

Here, we will cover the advantages that lead DBAs to use query attributes. We will also mention the queries that enable users to take advantage of the database’s native support to query attributes.

 

When MySQL SQL Performance Tuning Needs Query Attributes

 

At first glance, you may not realise the benefits of the metadata that comes with a statement, particularly since the database ignores it. But that actually increases the convenience of using it and points toward the following major applications in MySQL SQL performance tuning:

 

●      Plugin usage for tasks such as rewriting and audit logging

●      For queries in Web applications that locate the source URL

●      To improve inter-team interactions

●      For gaining an aggregate of query statistics.

 

These will become clear with an example: if you are part of a company’s database team, for instance, and you come across an issue - an increase in CPU, for example. All you have to do is move over to the monitoring solution and scroll to the query attributes that were in frequent use when the issue took place in MySQL database and SQL.

 

These will help you communicate the problem with the developers who will also be able to see what they need to from the attribute values clearly. Such a tip proves extremely useful for large projects.

 

DBA Tuning: Adding Attributes to a SQL Statement

 

This is a simple task in DBA tuning, although the exact syntax is reliant on what tool is responsible for parsing the attributes. Typically, you can apply the syntax “/*...*/” before you type in the query.

Keep in mind that this technique is actually a hack, which means the database doesn’t actually contain the attributes. The statement also needs parsing before the others can read the comments.

Moreover, when the database creates the Performance Schema digest for each statement, it removes these comments. Suppose you have a monitoring tool that must gather the stats the query attributes collect. You will have to look for the event statement history log table for polling or take hold of the network traffic numbers. Remember that doing the latter will require SSL enabling in case you have to improve MySQL database performance.

 

Improve MySQL Database Performance with the Query Attributes Component

 

As an alternative, you can take advantage of the new query attributes component included from MySQL 8.0.23 onward. You just have to enable this native support by installing this facet using the install component query.

The statement remains the same for Windows, Linux, and macOS. You can also uninstall the component according to your needs using the uninstall component statement.