Wait Type RESOURCE_QUEUE

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 wait types provide valuable insights into performance bottlenecks, helping database administrators identify and resolve issues. One such wait type is RESOURCE_QUEUE, which relates to the management of system resources. Understanding what this wait means and how to address it can improve the efficiency of your SQL Server environment.

What is RESOURCE_QUEUE?

The RESOURCE_QUEUE wait type occurs when a query or process is waiting in a queue to access resources that are currently unavailable. This typically happens when a system is experiencing resource contention due to limited CPU, memory, or other critical resources.

In simpler terms, this wait type acts like a line at a busy store. Processes are waiting their turn to use system resources because all available slots are occupied. If this wait occurs frequently or for long durations, it could mean your server is under heavy load or improperly configured.

Why Does RESOURCE_QUEUE Happen?

There are several reasons why RESOURCE_QUEUE waits might occur, including:

• Resource Governor restrictions limiting resource allocation for specific workloads.
• High CPU usage, causing processes to queue until resources become available.
• Memory pressure preventing processes from executing efficiently.
• Excessive query concurrency overwhelming the server.
• Suboptimal configuration of workload priorities and thresholds.

While occasional RESOURCE_QUEUE waits are normal in busy environments, frequent or extended waits should prompt further investigation.

How to Monitor RESOURCE_QUEUE Waits

Monitoring RESOURCE_QUEUE waits over time is crucial for identifying trends and determining their impact on your system. The Database Health Monitor is an excellent tool for tracking these waits. Its Historic Waits Monitoring feature allows you to analyze wait types and identify patterns that may point to underlying issues.

With Database Health Monitor, you can correlate spikes in RESOURCE_QUEUE waits with system activity, such as increased query volume, CPU utilization, or memory pressure. This data can help you pinpoint the root cause and take corrective action.

What Can You Do About RESOURCE_QUEUE Waits?

If you’re encountering frequent or prolonged RESOURCE_QUEUE waits, here are some steps to address the issue:

• Review and adjust Resource Governor settings to ensure workloads have appropriate resource allocations.
• Analyze CPU and memory usage to determine if your server is under-resourced or needs an upgrade.
• Optimize queries and indexes to reduce resource demands and improve efficiency.
• Limit query concurrency by using throttling mechanisms or adjusting workload priorities.
• Consider scaling your infrastructure, such as adding more CPU or memory, to meet increased demands.

By implementing these measures, you can reduce RESOURCE_QUEUE waits and improve the overall performance of your SQL Server environment.

How Stedman Solutions Can Help

At Stedman Solutions, we specialize in SQL Server performance tuning and troubleshooting, including resolving issues with wait types like RESOURCE_QUEUE. Our managed services provide proactive monitoring and expert support to optimize your database environment. Additionally, our Database Health Monitor offers powerful tools to track and analyze SQL Server waits, ensuring your system performs at its best.

If you’re facing performance challenges or want to optimize your SQL Server, contact us today. Let us help you achieve a fast, reliable, and efficient database environment!

Find out more about our SQL Server Managed Services

Applies to

Related Waits

See Also

• More About RESOURCE_QUEUE