In recent years, there are a number of customers asking me whether there is any alternative to release the pressure on buying relational database license on transaction systems and data warehouse repository. With the years of development, there are lots of stored procedure or functions being developed in the database such as PL/SQL at Oracle database. It is difficult to migrate to another database with the customized functions with the possible redevelopment and testing effort.
There is a statutory body, one of our clients – replacing their Oracle RAC with MariaDB clusters (5 nodes) which helps them to save several million US dollars for the total ownership for a 5-year period. It is a typical example for organization due to cost consideration. For the saving, they are using them to purchase new ETL tools and new servers.
Figure 1. Oracle RAC Architecture
Figure 2. MariaDB HA Architecture
Moreover, MariaDB provides Oracle compatibility mode with over 80% PL / SQL stored procedure running directly without any changes. Nevertheless, the incompatible features could be implemented with the MariaDB by similar features. In terms of the functionalities, MariaDB should be able to handle all types of workload as of Oracle. Apart from the functions & features, the Oracle architecture is recommended to be run on top of high-end storage system like expensive SAN. However, the MariaDB is running fine with local storage of server and the performance is significant improved by the popularity of SSD flash storage.
With the open source databases nowadays, they are all ready to be part of the enterprise grade operation. There are other choices like MySQL and PostgreSQL. For our client, the statutory body is fully supported by the HKSAR government and their primary concern is not just budget. They are seeking for a database system scalable to the future development like integration with Apache Cassandra for semi-structured data with top quality technical support. For PostgreSQL, it is developed by the University of California and there is no direct technical support by the developers. For MySQL, it is owned by Oracle and basically riding on a commercial software license.
In addition, the MariaDB AX is the column-based features to allow the enhancement on analytic usage. It is also interesting that MariaDB TX (transactional data) and AX (analytic data) can be run in the same hardware box or clusters. This allows the highest level of flexibility and scalability. To conclude, the migration to MariaDB is not only for the budget concerns but also the investment for the future development.
