In MySQL, database indexes allow you to improve the query performance. Large data collection in tables performs better in the availability of indexes. Every MySQL database expert suggests increasing the number of indexes if your site has a slow load speed, the database is unable to connect an application or you have backed up database queries.
But the process of creating indexes has to be correct. And this post will help you understand the right approach to using indexes to improve MySQL query performance.
What sorts of indexes are required for MySQL query?
Generally, there can be one index only for every table. So, it would be better to make 1 index for every query. If possible, most of the similar indexes should look alike in most of the queries. This helps in reducing the pressure or loads your database when updating or inserting data.
Start the index creation process by looking at the quality conditions. Then, move to the range conditions before you think about creating a different index to include the columns of the clause ORDER BY.
You can analyze the existing database queries to understand when and where to add indexes. You can utilize the statement EXPLAIN SELECT to complete your analysis. You can log in and go through the execution of a query.
Using your database analysis, you can decide to add, remove and view indexes in a certain table. Removing process requires using the table name as well as the index name you wish to delete to complete the process.
What are the mistakes to avoid when using indexes?
1. Creating indexes for every column separately
As mentioned before, each table can utilize 1 index only in most databases of MySQL. So, if you create an index for every column, it reduces the performance capacity of a database.
The solution lies in creating compound indexes instead of using too many single-column types of indexes.
2. Adding too many indexes
The performance tuning of MySQL requires the addition of indexes. But you can’t include too many of them. Then, it becomes a downside to your database.
The right approach is updating and removing indexes from time to time. Your database goes through changes with time. You need to keep your indexes in sync with all those changes.
This is the reason why updates and removing process are important. You can analyze and decide the relevant indexes that require an update. The process requires time and qualified professionals, especially if you have huge indexes and tables.
For that reason, you can’t keep on creating too many indexes. Only create the ones that have maximum importance for your MySQL performance.
3. Forgetting about the order of index columns
The order of the index columns takes away the pressure from the database. If you change the order, it increases the load on your database. So, you need to take care of the order as well when creating columns in indexes. You should find a qualified MySql consultant to do this all conveniently.
