What is a clustering index in DB2 and how does it differ from a non-clustering index?

1 Answers
Answered by suresh

Understanding Clustering Index in DB2

A clustering index in DB2 is a type of index that organizes the physical order of data rows in a table according to the key values in the index. This means that the data rows are physically sorted in the same order as the index key values, which facilitates faster retrieval of data based on the indexed columns.

Focus Keyword: Clustering Index in DB2

On the other hand, a non-clustering index in DB2 does not dictate the physical order of data rows in the table. Instead, it simply contains pointers to the physical location of the data, making it efficient for retrieving specific rows based on the indexed columns, but not necessarily in a sorted order.

Therefore, the key difference between a clustering index and a non-clustering index in DB2 lies in how they organize the physical storage of data: clustering index physically orders the data rows while non-clustering index does not.

Ultimately, using a clustering index in DB2 can significantly improve the performance of queries that involve range scans or ordered retrieval of data based on the indexed columns.

Answer for Question: What is a clustering index in DB2 and how does it differ from a non-clustering index?