UUID performance in MySQL?

Question

We\'re considering using UUID values as primary keys for our MySQL database. The data being inserted is generated from dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of remote computer

Answer 1

I tend to avoid UUID simply because it is a pain to store and a pain to use as a primary key but there are advantages. The main one is they are UNIQUE.

I usually solve the problem and avoid UUID by using dual key fields.

COLLECTOR = UNIQUE ASSIGNED TO A MACHINE

ID = RECORD COLLECTED BY THE COLLECTOR (auto_inc field)

This offers me two things. Speed of auto-inc fields and uniqueness of data being stored in a central location after it is collected and grouped together. I also know while browsing the data where it was collected which is often quite important for my needs.

I have seen many cases while dealing with other data sets for clients where they have decided to use UUID but then still have a field for where the data was collected which really is a waste of effort. Simply using two (or more if needed) fields as your key really helps.

I have just seen too many performance hits using UUID. They feel like a cheat...