Wait Type PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE

Wait statistics, in the context of SQL Server, refer to the amount of time that a query spends waiting to access data in the database. When a client application requests data from the database, the request is placed in a queue and the client application must wait for its turn to access the data. The time that the query spends waiting is called a "wait" and is tracked by SQL Server. This information can be used to identify potential performance bottlenecks and optimize the performance of the database. Wait statistics are commonly used by database administrators to diagnose and troubleshoot performance issues in SQL Server.

SQL Server uses wait types to help identify where tasks may be delayed. The PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE wait type is related to SQL Server’s interaction with external OLE DB (Object Linking and Embedding Database) providers. It occurs when SQL Server is releasing resources associated with an OLE DB connection and is waiting for the external provider to complete its task. Understanding this wait type is important for optimizing environments that use OLE DB for external data access.

What Is the PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE Wait Type?

The PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE wait type appears when SQL Server makes a call to an external OLE DB provider to release resources associated with a connection. Because this operation occurs outside SQL Server’s control, it is handled in preemptive mode, meaning SQL Server yields the CPU to allow the external provider to complete its operation.

This wait type is commonly seen when working with linked servers, external databases, or applications that rely on OLE DB providers.

When Does PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE Appear?

This wait type typically occurs in the following scenarios:

• Linked Server Queries – When SQL Server queries external data sources through linked servers that use OLE DB providers.
• OLE DB Applications – When applications or processes use OLE DB connections to interact with SQL Server.
• Releasing Connections – When SQL Server closes or releases an OLE DB connection, and the provider takes time to finalize the operation.
• Network-Based Data Access – When the external OLE DB provider is accessed over a network, introducing potential delays.

Why PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE Waits Matter

Some PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE waits are expected in environments that use OLE DB extensively. However, excessive or prolonged waits may indicate inefficiencies or bottlenecks. Common causes include:

• Slow OLE DB Provider – The external provider may take too long to release resources or finalize the connection.
• Network Latency – For remote OLE DB providers, high network latency can increase wait times.
• Resource Bottlenecks – Limited CPU, memory, or disk resources on the external provider can delay operations.
• High Query Volume – Frequent or complex queries involving OLE DB can result in increased wait times for resource release.

How to Address PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE Waits

To reduce the impact of this wait type, consider the following strategies:

• Optimize OLE DB Queries – Minimize the complexity of queries sent to OLE DB providers to reduce processing times.
• Upgrade External Systems – Ensure the external OLE DB provider is running on optimized hardware with sufficient resources.
• Reduce Network Latency – Use fast and reliable network connections for remote OLE DB providers to improve performance.
• Monitor Linked Server Performance – Regularly review the performance of linked server queries to identify potential bottlenecks.
• Consider Alternatives – Evaluate if more efficient options, such as newer APIs or tools, can replace reliance on OLE DB providers.

Monitoring PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE Waits

To monitor this wait type, use SQL Server’s sys.dm_os_wait_stats to analyze occurrences and durations. Additionally, views like sys.dm_exec_requests can help identify active processes experiencing these waits. Tools like Database Health Monitor provide a comprehensive view of wait statistics and performance metrics, making it easier to identify and resolve bottlenecks.

Stedman Solutions offers expert SQL Server performance tuning and optimization services. If you’re dealing with wait types like PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE or need help improving database performance, we’re here to assist. Our Database Health Monitor tool delivers powerful insights into wait types and system health, and our managed services ensure your SQL Server environment runs efficiently. Contact us today to learn how we can help you optimize your SQL Server systems.

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Applies to

• SQL Server 2016
• SQL Server 2017
• SQL Server 2019
• SQL Server 2022

Related Waits

See Also

• More About PREEMPTIVE_OLEDB_RELEASE