Shard (computing)

In computing, "shard" refers to a piece or segment of a larger dataset that is stored separately to improve performance and efficiency. This technique is commonly used in databases and applications, particularly for handling large amounts of data. By dividing data into smaller, manageable pieces (shards), systems can distribute workloads across multiple servers, allowing for faster processing and easier data management. This method also enhances scalability, as new shards can be added easily as data grows. Essentially, sharding helps ensure that systems can handle increased traffic without slowing down or crashing.