Database Administration (MySQL & MariaDB)

Overview

From shared LAMP environments in the early 2000s to modern cloud-based blue/green deployments on AWS, I've architected, optimised, and maintained MySQL databases that power mission-critical applications serving millions of users.

Approach

• Performance-first: Query optimisation, indexing strategies, and caching layers that deliver sub-100ms response times
• High availability: Master-slave replication, automated failover, and zero-downtime migrations
• Scalability: Horizontal and vertical scaling strategies proven across 6-year production runs with 100% uptime
• Modern stacks: Transitioned legacy systems to MariaDB and explored NoSQL alternatives (MongoDB, SQLite) where appropriate

Key Strengths

• Deep understanding of MySQL internals, query execution plans, and storage engines
• Proven track record of zero-downtime migrations and upgrades
• Experience with both traditional dedicated servers and modern cloud-native architectures
• Strong grasp of backup/recovery strategies and disaster recovery planning

Real-World Impact

At iknow-uk, I designed and maintained a database infrastructure that supported over 1 million scheduled emails with intelligent delivery timing based on user behaviour patterns—achieving 100% uptime over 6 years of operation before the company's acquisition.