Analyzing Computer System Performance with Perl::PDQ

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3 Reviews

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This book lays out basics of queuing theory in a way that is both understandable and easy to apply. I have fumbled for years using complex performance analysis tools without ever really knowing whether or not I'm getting the right answer. Now I know what looks right and what doesn't. Gunther has an easy to follow style as he introduces the concepts of queuing theory. Then he shows you how to apply what you have learned using real life examples. It's a definite "must have" for the capacity planner or system performance analyst.

dr. gunther has written a gem of a performance analysis book. for starter, the unix load average is a wonderful detective story. i especially liked chapter 5 with real performance analysis experiences applying queueing theory discussed in both chapter 2 and 3. the best part is dr. gunther's exposition of queueing theory into the essence for the working performance analysts. in addition, appendix B on buffers and appendix C on memoryless property are the most lucid explanation i have read. i would also heartily recommend dr. gunther's other book, the practical performance analyst.

The coverage of the theory in the first part of the book is very well done. However, its the practical examples in the second half where the book really shines. There are a number of examples modeling client server and web applications.

A copy of his modeling tool, PDQ, is available by download from his website. This version is in Perl. Even though I am not a very experienced Perl programmer I think this is an interesting way to get more practice by building PDQ models. The PDQ package is explained very well and a number of example models are covered.

Some of the examples are from various scattered publications. It's great to get these example models collected in one volume. Dr. Gunthers characteristic sense of humor comes through in the examples.

There is some very practical information about model validation and what to do to account for hidden latencies. There are clear examples of how to practice the art of applying queuing models to real problems.

I would have liked to see some more examples of load dependent servers. Overall I rate the book five stars and I really appreciate getting the modeling software for free!