9.2 Database Performance

Database queries often represent the biggest performance bottleneck in web applications. We optimize queries by selecting only necessary data, using appropriate indexes, and implementing caching strategies where they provide meaningful benefits.

WordPress database optimization focuses on efficient use of WP_Query and avoiding common performance pitfalls like unnecessary post meta queries or overly broad taxonomy queries. These examples are outlined above.

Laravel database optimization leverages Eloquent’s query builder efficiently, using eager loading to prevent N+1 query problems and selecting only necessary columns.