As a SQL Server DBA, one of the most common challenges we face is database performance. We often spend a significant amount of time identifying performance bottlenecks, but finding effective solutions can be a daunting task. What do you do when you’ve already optimized a query to the best of your ability? Or when you’re unable to make changes to a database supporting a purchased application?

Fortunately, there is a solution that goes beyond just identifying performance problems – Iridium I/O for SQL Server. Originally developed by Confio software (makers of Ignite), Iridium I/O was created to address the need for a tool that not only identifies performance issues but also provides a way to fix them. This technology is certified by Microsoft and has since been spun out into a separate company, now led by the Confio Founder/CEO and technology management team.

So, how does Iridium I/O work? It utilizes deduplication technology to both shrink databases and boost IO performance. What’s fascinating is that it can deduplicate a live database while transactions are being executed. You can actually witness the database size decreasing while user queries are running.

Using Iridium I/O is straightforward. After installing the software, you simply click the “Analyze” button, which will assess each database and estimate both storage and performance savings. Once the analysis is complete, you can activate Iridium I/O for your selected databases by clicking the “Activate” button. The best part is that you don’t need to reboot the operating system or restart the database at any point during the process.

During my testing, I also wanted to evaluate the impact of removing Iridium I/O from my databases. The “revert” process, which brings the files back to their SQL Server native format, was executed with a simple click of a button. The entire process completed seamlessly while the databases remained available for normal processing.

I was thoroughly impressed with Iridium I/O and enjoyed experimenting with the software. I highly encourage all SQL Server DBAs to give it a try. You can download Iridium for free from their website.

Improving database performance is a constant endeavor, and having tools like Iridium I/O can significantly simplify the process. By addressing performance issues directly and providing a solution that doesn’t require extensive changes or downtime, Iridium I/O offers a valuable resource for DBAs looking to optimize their SQL Server environments.