Scenario: An application developer wants to add an index to a frequently queried column in a DB2 table. However, they are concerned about the overhead of maintaining the index during data modifications. How would you advise them?
- Consider using a bitmap index, which can reduce the overhead of index maintenance for frequently modified columns.
- Create a materialized view instead of adding an index to improve query performance without incurring index maintenance overhead.
- Opt for a clustered index on the frequently queried column to minimize index maintenance overhead.
- Utilize a hash index for the frequently queried column to minimize index maintenance overhead.
Using a bitmap index can be a suitable solution for columns that are frequently queried but undergo frequent data modifications. Bitmap indexes can efficiently handle changes to the indexed data while still providing improved query performance. Hash indexes are not commonly used in DB2 and may not effectively address the concern about index maintenance overhead. Materialized views and clustered indexes are not directly related to the issue of reducing index maintenance overhead for frequently modified columns.
What information does the Runstats utility collect in DB2?
- Bufferpool statistics
- Index statistics
- Locking statistics
- Table statistics
The Runstats utility collects table statistics such as the number of rows, number of pages, and other distribution statistics that help the DB2 optimizer make better decisions.
In DB2, XML or JSON data can represent ________ structures.
- Graph
- Hierarchical
- Network
- Relational
XML and JSON are both capable of representing hierarchical data structures. In the case of DB2, these data structures can be represented using either XML or JSON data types. Hierarchical data structures are commonly found in XML and JSON formats, making them suitable for representing such structures in DB2.
What is the primary function of a cursor in DB2?
- To create temporary tables
- To execute dynamic SQL statements
- To perform bulk operations on the database
- To retrieve rows one at a time from the result set of an SQL query
A cursor in DB2 is primarily used to retrieve rows one at a time from the result set of an SQL query. This allows for sequential processing of the result set, enabling manipulation or analysis of each row individually. Cursors are commonly used in situations where processing each row separately is necessary, such as data validation or complex calculations.
Which of the following is an advantage of using an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like IBM Data Studio for database development?
- Enhanced productivity and collaboration
- Higher learning curve
- Limited functionality and features
- Platform dependency
An advantage of using an IDE like IBM Data Studio is enhanced productivity and collaboration. IDEs provide features like code completion, debugging tools, and integrated version control, which streamline the development process and facilitate team collaboration.
________ is a common technique used in denormalization to improve query performance.
- Indexing
- Normalization
- Partitioning
- Sorting
Indexing is a common technique employed in denormalization to enhance query performance. By creating appropriate indexes on denormalized tables, the database system can quickly locate and retrieve relevant data.
When using the LOAD utility in DB2, the ________ option allows for loading data into multiple tables concurrently.
- DATAONLY
- RESUME
- COPYDD
- LOADDD
The correct option is option 4: LOADDD. This option allows the LOAD utility to load data into multiple tables concurrently, thereby improving performance by reducing the time required for data loading operations. This feature is particularly useful in scenarios where data needs to be loaded into multiple related tables simultaneously.
Which component of DB2 is responsible for managing user access permissions?
- Authorization Manager
- Backup Scheduler
- Data Loader
- Query Optimizer
The Authorization Manager in DB2 is responsible for managing user access permissions. It determines which users have access to which data and what actions they can perform on that data. By configuring the Authorization Manager, database administrators can control user access at a granular level, ensuring data security and compliance with organizational policies.
In SQL, what is the purpose of the WHERE clause in a SELECT statement?
- Groups the rows
- Limits the rows returned
- Orders the result set
- Specifies the columns
The WHERE clause filters rows in a SELECT statement based on a specified condition. It is used to extract only the rows that fulfill a specified condition or criteria from a table.
What is the purpose of constraints in DB2?
- Ensure data integrity
- Improve query performance
- Organize data hierarchically
- Simplify database administration
Constraints in DB2 ensure data integrity by enforcing rules on the data that is entered into a table. This helps maintain consistency and accuracy of data, preventing invalid or inconsistent data from being inserted.
The TIMESTAMP data type in DB2 stores ________ values.
- Date and time
- Numeric
- Only date
- Only time
The TIMESTAMP data type in DB2 stores both date and time values. It is used to represent a precise point in time, down to fractions of a second. This data type is particularly useful when dealing with time-sensitive data, such as event logging or transaction timestamps, as it allows for accurate recording and manipulation of chronological information.
Upgrading to a newer version of DB2 is driven by factors such as ________.
- Compatibility concerns
- Cost implications
- Features and enhancements
- Technical requirements
Upgrading to a newer version of DB2 often involves considering various factors such as the features and enhancements offered by the newer version. Organizations may upgrade to take advantage of improved performance, security, or functionality. Understanding these factors helps organizations make informed decisions about when and how to upgrade their DB2 installations.