Cockroach Labs Launches Serverless SQL Database

CockroachDB Launches Serverless Beta

Cockroach Labs, the company behind CockroachDB, has announced the public beta release of a new serverless version of its SQL database.

This new offering aims to simplify database access for developers, enabling automatic scaling of resources without the need for manual configuration.

Simplified Development and Granular Pricing

According to co-founder and CEO Spencer Kimball, the primary objective is to streamline the development process and provide a highly detailed pricing model.

“This serverless product removes initial decision-making complexities for developers, which is a significant benefit,” Kimball stated. “Furthermore, it allows for billing based on precise usage, ensuring you only pay for the resources you actually consume.”

Eliminating Capacity Planning

A key advantage of a serverless database is the elimination of capacity planning requirements for developers.

Instead of forecasting the necessary number of nodes or machine types, developers can directly connect to the Cockroach serverless database.

The system then dynamically provisions the exact resources needed to handle the workload, potentially utilizing less than a full node if the demand is low.

Data Isolation and Resource Sharing

While utilizing shared resources, Kimball emphasizes that individual data remains securely isolated.

“Your data, even in its unencrypted state, is completely segregated from other developers or use cases.

This isolation is maintained while leveraging shared data storage and retrieval mechanisms for efficient resource utilization.”

Generous Free Tier and Automatic Scaling

Efficient resource sharing allows Cockroach Labs to offer a substantial free tier, enabling developers to build applications without incurring costs until significant usage is reached.

The system automatically scales resources up or down to accommodate fluctuating workloads.

Developers can also set spending limits to prevent resource consumption from exceeding their budgetary constraints.

Transparent Billing Practices

Cockroach Labs will not request credit card information until a developer surpasses the free tier and transitions to a paid plan.

This ensures users are not unexpectedly billed if their application experiences sudden growth.

Specific details regarding the pricing tiers are currently being finalized.

Availability and Company Background

The serverless product is currently available in public beta.

Founded in 2015, Cockroach Labs has secured over $355 million in funding, as reported by Crunchbase.

Their latest funding round, a $160 million Series E, valued the company at $2 billion in January.