iToverDose/Software· 9 MAY 2026 · 12:02

Postgres Index Usage Insights

Discover how to identify unused indexes in Postgres and optimize database performance with a custom query wrapper and logs table

DEV Community2 min read0 Comments

Postgres provides a built-in statistics system, pg_stat_user_indexes, which offers insights into index usage. However, it has limitations, such as not showing which queries used which index or the cost of maintaining unused indexes. To fill this gap, a custom solution can be implemented using a query wrapper, a logs table, and a dashboard. The wrapper captures query plans, measures execution time, and logs data asynchronously. By analyzing this data, developers can identify unused indexes and optimize their database for better performance.

Understanding Postgres Index Statistics

The pg_stat_user_indexes view provides information about index usage, including the number of scans, tuples read, and tuples fetched. However, it does not provide details about which queries used which index or the cost of maintaining unused indexes. To get a better understanding of index usage, a custom solution is needed.

Implementing a Custom Query Wrapper

A custom query wrapper can be implemented to capture query plans, measure execution time, and log data asynchronously. The wrapper uses the EXPLAIN (FORMAT JSON) command to get the query plan without executing the query. The plan is then analyzed to extract the indexes used, and the data is logged to a separate table.

Logging Query Data

The logged data includes the query hash, SQL preview, table name, endpoint, store ID, indexes used, and execution time. This data can be used to identify unused indexes and optimize database performance. The logging process is designed to be fire-and-forget, meaning that it does not block the response and will not slow down the query execution.

Analyzing Query Data

By analyzing the logged data, developers can identify unused indexes and optimize their database for better performance. The data can be used to answer questions such as which indexes are not being used, which queries are using which indexes, and what is the cost of maintaining unused indexes. With this information, developers can make informed decisions about index creation and maintenance, leading to improved database performance and reduced maintenance costs.

Looking Ahead

In conclusion, while Postgres provides a built-in statistics system, it has limitations. By implementing a custom query wrapper and logs table, developers can gain a deeper understanding of index usage and optimize their database for better performance. As database systems continue to evolve, it is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

AI summary

PostgreSQL'in yerleşik istatistikleri yetersiz kalıyor mu? Gereksiz indeks yükünü tespit etmek ve veritabanı performansınızı iyileştirmek için basit bir araçla tanışın.

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