BLOB revolution
In the upcoming version of Firebird 5.0.3, there will be significant improvements to BLOB data transfer across high-latency networks like the Internet: for example, transferring 8191 bytes as BLOB will be 3 times faster than using VARCHAR!
This optimization dramatically improves BLOB transfer speeds, bringing them on par with VARCHAR data. However, to leverage this enhancement, both server and client components must be updated to the newest version.
The performance breakthrough enables efficient cloud hosting of Firebird databases while maintaining full compatibility with traditional client applications. This advancement opens exciting new possibilities for cloud-based Firebird deployments, making remote database access substantially more practical for real-world applications.
The upcoming version introduces significant performance improvements for BLOB handling, along with enhanced network diagnostics, improved isql output, and several new parameters to fine-tune BLOB transfers.
To explore these new features in depth, D. Simonov—author of the official Firebird documentation (Language Reference and Developer Guide) and the free book "Detailed New Features of Firebird 5"—has written a comprehensive article titled "Transferring BLOBs over the wire in Firebird." (also available in PDF)
During the preparation of this article, an open-source tool called FB-BLOB-TEST was developed specifically to investigate BLOB and VARCHAR transfer performance. This tool is available on IBSurgeon's GitHub and can be used to conduct your own transfer tests and benchmarks.
It is important to add that this feature was sponsored by the community crowdfunding at Firebird Developers Day in Brazil. Thanks a lot to all Firebird users who contributed!
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