What is performance tuning in the context of database management?

Performance tuning in database management refers to the process of optimizing system performance to ensure efficient and effective operation of the database. This involves analyzing various aspects of the database environment, including query performance, indexing strategies, and resource allocation, to identify bottlenecks and areas that can be improved. The goal of performance tuning is to enhance the speed and responsiveness of the database, enabling it to handle operations more quickly and efficiently.

By focusing on aspects such as query optimization, proper indexing, and system resource management, performance tuning can significantly affect how well a database performs under varying loads and user demands. This is crucial for maintaining high levels of system performance, especially in environments where large volumes of data and numerous concurrent users are common.

The other options, while relevant to broader aspects of database management, do not capture the essence of performance tuning. Increasing storage capacity pertains to managing the physical space of a database, enhancing user interface design relates to usability rather than performance, and increasing data encryption focuses on security, not performance optimization.