Can Database Extensions in Dynatrace Impact Database Performance?

[NicoleMT]

Hello community,

We would like to understand whether enabling database extensions in Dynatrace could potentially impact database performance.

We recently configured an Oracle instance using the Dynatrace extension, and after the setup, we observed some unusual behavior in the database. While we are still analyzing the situation, one of the hypotheses is that the extension might be contributing to this behavior.

Has anyone experienced performance degradation, additional load, or unexpected behavior after enabling the Oracle extension?

Additionally, regarding the Informix extension, is there any documented information about performance considerations, query load, or best practices to avoid potential impact in production environments?

We would really appreciate if anyone could share their experience or recommendations.

Thank you in advance.

[t_pawlak]

Hi,
Yes — an extension can add load, because it runs periodic SQL queries (from an ActiveGate) to collect metrics. It’s typically low overhead, but too frequent polling or enabling “heavy queries” can contribute to issues on a busy DB.
Data collected with Dynatrace database monitoring 
Oracle:

• query-interval / heavy-query-interval (increase and compare behavior),
• DB views (AWR/ASH, v$session, v$sql) to confirm extension queries and their cost,
• least-privilege read-only monitoring user.

Oracle Extension version 3.2.0 configuration variables - heavy-query-interval 

Informix:
Dynatrace notes metrics are collected via various SQL queries executed on the instance, so start with conservative intervals and be careful during peak hours.
IBM Informix extension