When the Postgres query planner goes rogue

In a case study involving a sudden spike in database CPU usage without any apparent changes in query volume or system configuration, the root cause was identified as a misbehavior of the PostgreSQL query planner. This issue arose when a specific query pattern, which was previously efficient, began consuming excessive resources due to a change in the planner's execution strategy, causing it to bypass an index and perform full table scans. The immediate solution involved employing Database Traffic Control® to impose strict resource budgets on the problematic query, effectively curtailing its execution and allowing the database to recover. While this temporary fix restored normal operations, a long-term resolution would require analyzing the query's execution plans to refresh statistics, adjust indexes, or rewrite the query for optimal performance. This incident underscores the importance of tools like Database Traffic Control in maintaining database health by allowing precise management of query resource utilization.

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