EXASOL technology is based on many years of research and development in the field of high-performance cluster computing. Broad support of open standards such as SQL 2003, ODBC or JDBC allows smooth integration into existing customer systems. Thanks to the unique combination of four key characteristics, EXASOL is the clear technological leader in the industry:

 

• Massive parallel data processing
• Intelligent in-memory algorithms
• Innovative compression algorithms
• Efficient communication system

Massive parallel data processing

EXASolution was developed as a parallel system and is constructed according to the shared -nothing principle. Data are distributed across all nodes in a cluster. When responding to queries, all nodes co-operate and special parallel algorithms ensure that the data are processed locally in the main memory of each individual node.

If a query is sent to the system, it is first accepted by the node that is connected to the client.

 

 

The query is then distributed to all nodes.

Intelligent algorithms optimize the query, determine the best plan of action and generate indices on the fly.

The EXASOL optimizer decides whether the data are to be reorganized for the specific user profile in the cluster.

 

 

The system then processes the partial results from the local data. This processing paradigm is also known as SPMD (single program multiple data). All cluster nodes work on an equal basis.

 

 

 

The query results are delivered to the user via the relevant connecting nodes.

 

 

Intelligent in-memory algorithms

EXASolution achieves its high performance as a result of innovative main memory algorithms. Unlike the hard-disk-based algorithms of traditional solutions, EXASolution can specifically access any single value within nanoseconds. The algorithms that process the queries take advantage of these characteristics of the main memory and thus enable optimum performance. EXASolution further enhances performance by automatically adjusting the contents of main memory according to the respective usage profile.

Upon completion of a write operation, data is commited to the local hard disks. Built-in redundant data distribution also guarantees high database availability.

 

Innovative compression algorithms

As a result of several years of research, EXASOL uses unique compression algorithms that allow efficient use of the main memory and thus achieve a sustained reduction in system costs. Data is already compressed in main memory, element by element, allowing even more efficient use of the advantages of in-memory processing.

 

Efficient communication system

In recent years, EXASOL developed a highly efficient communication system aimed predominantly at enabling high-performance and failsafe communication in a cluster of more than 1000 nodes.

EXASOL communication combined with balanced data distribution makes a key contribution to the unique scaling properties of the system. As requirements increase, the system can be easily extended by adding additional nodes.