Distributed Transactions in NewSQL

1. Introduction

NewSQL databases combine the scalability of NoSQL systems with the ACID guarantees of traditional SQL databases. Distributed transactions in NewSQL ensure that a series of operations across multiple nodes occur atomically, maintaining data consistency and reliability.

2. Key Concepts

• ACID Properties: Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability are essential for reliable transactions.
• Distributed Systems: A system where components located on networked computers communicate and coordinate their actions by passing messages.
• Two-Phase Commit (2PC): A protocol used to ensure that all participants in a distributed transaction either commit or rollback changes.
• Consensus Algorithms: Mechanisms like Paxos or Raft that help in achieving agreement among distributed nodes.

3. Distributed Transactions

Distributed transactions span multiple databases or nodes. They require coordination to ensure that operations are completed across all nodes involved.

4. Implementation Steps

1. Identify the participating nodes for the transaction.
2. Begin the transaction and lock the necessary resources.
3. Execute the transaction on all nodes.
4. Use a consensus algorithm to agree on the commit or rollback.
5. Finalize the transaction on all nodes.

                BEGIN TRANSACTION;

                -- Operation on Node 1
                INSERT INTO table1 (column1) VALUES (value1);

                -- Operation on Node 2
                INSERT INTO table2 (column1) VALUES (value2);

                COMMIT;
            

5. Best Practices

• Minimize the number of nodes involved in a distributed transaction.
• Utilize lightweight distributed coordination protocols.
• Implement retry mechanisms for transient failures.
• Regularly monitor network latency and performance metrics.

6. FAQ