CockroachDB EC-1: Scalable Distributed SQL

The Foundation of Modern Applications

Each application is built upon a series of underlying technologies, with each successive layer depending on the stability of those beneath it. Web-based user interfaces depend on JavaScript and the browser's Document Object Model (DOM), which in turn rely on back-end Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), ultimately grounded in databases.

As one progresses further into the technological stack, decisions regarding implementation tend to become increasingly cautious. Altering a button's placement within a web application presents a minor challenge, whereas a change in the database engine could fundamentally disrupt an entire project.

The Longevity of Database Technologies

It is unsurprising, therefore, that database technologies represent some of the most enduring engineering endeavors in contemporary software development. MySQL, continuing to be a leading database engine globally, was initially released in the mid-1990s. Similarly, Oracle Database, launched over four decades ago, remains a prevalent choice in demanding corporate settings.

While database technology possesses the potential to revolutionize industries, its evolution is characteristically deliberate and gradual. This reality presents a unique challenge for startups operating within this sector. Sales cycles can be protracted, even when innovative features offer substantial improvements to developer workflows. Competition is intense, originating from established, large-scale technology corporations. Successful exits are relatively infrequent.

Cockroach Labs: Addressing Global Data Challenges

This complex landscape – and the opportunities it presents – makes the study of Cockroach Labs particularly compelling. The company, creator of CockroachDB, aims to resolve a persistent issue in large-scale, distributed database architecture: ensuring that data generated in one geographic location is consistently available for use by applications situated across the globe, with immediate and precise accuracy.

Achieving consistently available, immediate, and accurate global data may appear straightforward, but in practice, it represents a significant undertaking. The narrative of Cockroach Labs is one of persistent effort, ultimately leading to the emergence of a next-generation database company valued at $2 billion.

EC-1 Contributors

Bob Reselman served as the lead writer for this EC-1. Reselman brings over two decades of experience covering the enterprise software market, with a strong focus on educating engineers about technology. Danny Crichton was the lead editor, with assistance from assistant editor Ram Iyer and copy editor Richard Dal Porto. Visual design was handled by Bob Reselman, with styling by Bryce Durbin, and illustrations were created by Nigel Sussman.

It is important to note that CockroachDB had no influence over the content of this analysis and was not granted prior access. Reselman has no financial connections to CockroachDB and has disclosed no conflicts of interest.

EC-1 Overview

The CockroachDB EC-1 consists of four primary articles, totaling 9,100 words and an estimated reading time of 37 minutes. The following sections will be examined:

• Part 1: The Beginning “CockroachDB, the database that just won’t die” (2,100 words/8 minutes) — This article details the origins of CockroachDB, tracing its roots from the development of the open-source image editor GIMP to influential infrastructure products at Google.
• Part 2: Technical Architecture “How engineers fought the CAP theorem in the global war on latency” (2,400 words/10 minutes) — This section analyzes the core differentiators that CockroachDB brings to the relational database market, with a particular emphasis on its geographical focus and data storage strategies.
• Part 3: Developer Engagement and Business Model “‘Developers, as you know, do not like to pay for things‘” (2,200 words/9 minutes) — This explores CockroachDB’s approach to engaging with developers, alongside its transition towards a cloud-based business model at a pivotal moment in its development.
• Part 4: Market Position and Future Outlook “Scaling CockroachDB in the red ocean of relational databases” (2,400 words/10 minutes) — This evaluates the startup’s potential for growth within the highly competitive relational database landscape and considers potential exit strategies.

Feedback and Contact

We are continually refining the EC-1 format. Should you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please direct them to TechCrunch Managing Editor Danny Crichton at danny@techcrunch.com.