A number of database optimizations methods have been added to or enhanced in SQL Server or Windows. They all do basically the same thing. They reduce the time needed to access data.
In memory databases are the latest SQL Server optimization allowing databases to exist completely in RAM. Very high performance can be obtained from this implementation.
SSD has been used for a number of years, and are improving in lifetime and coming down in cost.
An old technique still available is to pin individual tables to cache. This works much like an in-memory database except it is done on a table by table basis.
Another old standby Is the creation of a ram disk allowing memory to be used like a disk, much like an SSD, highly enhancing performance.
Of all these implementations the SSD has the easiest to implement method of power off persistence. The down side is the lifetime of SSD does not yet begin to match other storage tools.
With all these technologies, what factors impact your decisions for selection? Is one method better than another, and in what situations? Share your experience or considerations here or by email to btaylor@sswug.org.
Cheers,
Ben