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At what point do I need to consider using Multi-DB?

Please can you give me an indication of at what point I would need to consider using multiple DBs for my WordPress network e.g. number of sites hosted / traffic etc.

Thank you.

Andy

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:10:09
  • William
    • Site Builder, Child of Zeus

    I believe most of us started with shared hosting.

    Even with Multi-DB plugin deployed, how many sites warrant an upgrade to VPS?

    And then how many sites require a dedicated server?

    Just to get a rough sense of when is a right time or justification to upgrade to better server, of course, higher investment dollars.

  • eyecool
    • Design Lord, Child of Thor

    Phil’s right on the money.

    Let me put it another way; if you’re worried about the # of databases, you’re worrying about the wrong thing. Planning for capacity does not mean have many databases; all you need is one.

    Here’s the best way I know to answer your questions, and hopefully help you at the same time:

    Shared Hosting

    If you’re on shared hosting, outgrow it with a purpose. Whatever you are working on, make it spectacular. Make the shared host sweat, and when it does, move.

    Virtual Private Server

    Get a GREAT VPS through a GREAT VPS host. Don’t ever waste your time with crap. Save yourself time – get a Linode. Period.

    Your mind can justify anything it wants you to believe. Don’t let it. Keep it focuses on your spectacular idea. Saving $5 or $10 on crap, kills ideas dead.

    2 Virtual Private Servers

    The best thing you can do for any web app (WordPress included), is to separate the services. This is why I love Linodes in pairs.

    Server 1 hosts your files and php. Server 2 is a dedicated MySQL server.

    (if you check my profile and look for previous posts, I think I wrote about this a few months ago)

    Man, I could write a book. The things experience have taught me are invaluable. I don’t believe in shortcuts, but I do believe in good advice.

    Lastly, I wouldn’t even bother with a dedicated server, unless you’re going to virtualize it to run your own VPSs on.