Bitcoin: Does `autoclean-once` without vacuuming lightningd.sqlite3 slow down the future growth of size lightningd.sqlite3?

Impact of AutoCleanup on Lightningd SQLite3: Slowdown

The Lightning command-line interface changed the game on the Bitcoin network by allowing users to create and manage nodes on the Lightning network. One of the key features that provide this functionality is an automatic cleanup mechanism that periodically removes outdated data to maintain the performance and security of nodes. However, some users report unusual behavior when using the autoclean-once command.

Problem: self-cleaning without vacuuming

When running lightning-cli autoclean-once, two different results are possible, depending on whether the vacuum cleaner is used or not:

• Vacuum: If the autoclean-once command uses the --vacuum flag, it will attempt to clean up stale data in the SQLite database. In this case, if lightningd.sqlite3 has been updated and new data has been added, this can lead to a significant slowdown.

• No cleanup: If no cleanup is used (autoclean-once --), the autoclean-once command will clean only stale data that has not changed since the last update. In this scenario, lightningd.sqlite3 should continue to grow and update at a normal rate.

Problem: stunted growth

The problem is caused by the way autoclean-once handles updates and new data added to the SQLite database. Although it is designed to clean up legacy data, some users report that automatic cleanup without vacuuming can slow down the growth of lightningd.sqlite3. The slowdown is probably due to the increased time it takes to update the database.

Conclusion

The one-time auto-cleanup mechanism plays a crucial role in maintaining the performance and security of nodes in the Lightning network. However, using it without a vacuum can lead to a significant slowdown in growth, especially during periods of high activity or when adding new data to the SQLite database. To avoid this problem, users should select the --vacuum flag when running autoclean-once.

Recommendation

To minimize the impact of autocleaning on lightningd.sqlite3 growth, use the --vacuum flag wherever possible:

• Use the following command: lightning-cli autoclean-once --vacuum

• Avoid using default behavior (autoclean-once without vacuum)

• Regularly check the SQLite database for updates and, if necessary, consider updating it.

By taking this precaution, users can ensure optimal performance and growth of their Lightning Network nodes.

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