Database Sharding - what it is, how it works, and why you need it?

The article 'Database Sharding Explained' delves into the concept of database sharding, a technique used to break large datasets into smaller, more manageable pieces referred to as 'shards.' The author explains that sharding aims to enhance the performance and availability of databases, which is particularly crucial for high-traffic applications. Various methods of sharding are discussed, including horizontal sharding and vertical sharding, along with their respective advantages and disadvantages. Horizontal sharding splits data by rows, while vertical sharding divides data by columns. The author highlights the challenges associated with implementing sharding, such as architectural complexity and data management issues. The article concludes by noting that while sharding can significantly improve system performance, it should be employed cautiously, with appropriate data management strategies to avoid potential pitfalls associated with its use.