The Flex Server is a powerful tool, but its performance can be significantly impacted by inefficient data access strategies. One of the most common ways we see this? Overusing the Data Exchange (DEX) Interface for scenarios where read-only access to data is more than enough. While the DEX offers robust capabilities for data manipulation, relying on it for simple data retrieval introduces unnecessary overhead, leading to slower response times and increased server load. So what should be used instead?
Choosing when to use the DEX
The DEX Interface is designed for bidirectional data exchange, including operations like creating, updating and deleting records. Each DEX call, even for what seems like a simple read, involves a series of processes that contribute to server load:
- Authentication and authorization: Each request must be validated.
- Data serialization/deserialization: Data is typically converted into a specific format for transmission and then back again.
- Transaction management: Even read operations can involve implicit transaction handling.
- Resource allocation: Each DEX call consumes server resources, including CPU and memory.
When numerous applications or users are constantly querying data through DEX, it adds up quickly, creating a bottleneck that directly impacts the Flex Server’s responsiveness and overall performance.
The power of database replication for read-only access
Moving forward, consider database replication, which offers a superior alternative for scenarios demanding frequent read-only access to Flex Server data. This approach involves creating a duplicated database (often referred to as a ‘replica’ database) that is maintained in near real-time synchronization with your primary Flex Server database. A few of the reasons you should switch to using database replication when appropriate include:
- Offloading read workload: By directing all read-only queries to the replicated database, you effectively offload a significant portion of the workload from your primary Flex Server. This frees up resources on the main server to handle its core transactional responsibilities and DEX-specific operations more efficiently.
- Reduced latency: Queries against a dedicated read-replica can often be processed faster, as the replica is specifically optimized for reading. There’s no additional overhead of the DEX Interface.
- Optimized query performance: You can fine-tune the replicated database with specific indexes or configurations tailored for the read patterns of your reporting and analytical applications, further enhancing query performance.
Implementing database replication
To implement database replication, you’ll need the Flex Database Replication Module. Once this is in place, you’ll need to:
- Set up a replica instance (i.e. a separate database instance) on a dedicated server or within your existing infrastructure. This will be a MySQL or Microsoft SQLServer database.
- Setup database replication following the instructions located in the Data Replication Manual. This manual, identified by the part number MN006210A01, is one of the documents included in the Flex Manuals.
- Update your applications and reports to query the replicated database for all read-only data access.
Conclusion
While the DEX Interface is an indispensable component for interacting with your Flex Server, it’s crucial to understand its optimal use cases. For scenarios demanding frequent read-only access to data, the overhead associated with DEX can significantly degrade CAD, RMS and Jail performance. By strategically implementing database replication, you can offload read workloads, improve query performance, enhance scalability and ultimately ensure your Flex Server operates at its peak efficiency.
If you’re ready to implement data replication at your agency, please reach out to the Support team.
