Introduction:

In Episode 4 of the Optimizing Databases on Kubernetes series, Jérôme Petazzoni benchmarks the performance of various Kubernetes storage classes, including cloud block storage, ZFS, and Rancher’s Local Path provisioner. This episode dives into the practical aspects of measuring transactions per second, storage efficiency, and durability, offering insights into selecting the right storage solution for database workloads. Through detailed performance comparisons, Jérôme highlights how features like ZFS compression can optimize resource usage and boost database throughput.

• Benchmarking Storage Classes: Testing cloud block storage, ZFS with compression, and local storage for database workloads.

• ZFS Performance Advantages: Exploring how ZFS compression reduces disk usage while improving transaction rates.

• Trade-offs in Storage Solutions: Evaluating speed, durability, and scalability across different Kubernetes storage options.

Jérôme begins by setting up benchmarks using CNPG (CloudNativePG) clusters, starting with cloud block storage as the baseline. The episode walks through the methodology of using pgbench, a PostgreSQL benchmarking tool, to measure transaction rates and resource usage under varying workloads. With cloud block storage, Jérôme achieves a modest 1,400 transactions per second, emphasizing its durability but noting its limited speed.

The focus then shifts to ZFS, a file system renowned for features like compression, deduplication, and snapshots. Using ZFS compression, Jérôme demonstrates a dramatic improvement, with transaction rates doubling to 3,400 per second while reducing actual disk usage by nearly 80%. He explains how ZFS’s LZ4 compression balances CPU efficiency with storage optimization, making it a strong choice for production environments requiring high performance and efficient resource use.

This episode emphasizes the trade-offs inherent in Kubernetes storage options. Cloud block storage offers reliability but sacrifices speed, while ZFS provides a balanced middle ground with advanced features and improved performance. Local storage shines in speed but lacks critical production-grade safeguards. Jérôme concludes with a recommendation to carefully benchmark and tune storage configurations for specific workloads, especially when using ZFS, to maximize performance and resource efficiency.

Things you will learn in this video:

• Benchmarking Kubernetes Storage: Compare performance metrics like transactions per second and storage usage.

• Maximizing ZFS Efficiency: Leverage compression to boost throughput and reduce resource consumption.

• Choosing the Right Storage: Understand the pros and cons of cloud block storage, ZFS, and local storage in Kubernetes environments.

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