Chapter 20. DB2 Behind the Scenes

IN THIS CHAPTER

• The Physical Storage of Data

• What Makes DB2 Tick

After reading the first nineteen chapters of this book, you should have a sound understanding of the fundamental concepts of the DB2 database management system. You are familiar with the functionality and nature of SQL, and you understand the process of embedding SQL in an application program and preparing it for execution. Additionally, you've learned many tips and techniques for achieving proper performance.

But what is actually going on behind the scenes in DB2? When you create a table, how does DB2 create and store it? When you issue an SQL statement, what happens to it so that it returns your answer? Where are these application plans kept? What is going on "under the covers"? The remainder of Part III helps you answer these questions.