If you’ve ever used Power BI, you’ve probably noticed how fast it processes data. But what makes it so powerful? The secret lies in the VertiPaq engine! In this post, we’ll break down what VertiPaq is, how it works, and why it’s a game-changer for Power BI users.
Why is Power BI So Fast?
The reason Power BI reports load quickly is because of VertiPaq, an in-memory, columnar database engine. But before we dive deeper, let’s first understand the difference between row-store and columnar databases.
- Row-store databases store data row by row, making them efficient for transactional systems.
- Columnar databases, like VertiPaq, store data column by column, optimizing it for fast reading and analysis.
4 Crucial Facts About VertiPaq
1️⃣ It’s a Columnar Database
Unlike traditional databases that store data in rows, VertiPaq organizes data in columns. This makes aggregations, filters, and calculations much faster.
2️⃣ It Runs In-Memory (RAM-Based)
VertiPaq doesn’t rely on slow disk-based storage. Instead, it loads data into RAM, allowing Power BI to process large datasets at lightning speed.
3️⃣ It Uses Advanced Compression
One of the biggest advantages of VertiPaq is data compression. By reducing the size of stored data, it saves memory and boosts performance.
4️⃣ It Works Only in Import or Composite Mode
VertiPaq does not work in DirectQuery mode. It is used only when Power BI copy data in Import Mode or works in composite mode (a mix of Import and DirectQuery)..
Final Thoughts
Now you know why Power BI is so fast! The VertiPaq engine is the key to its speed, allowing for efficient data storage, fast processing, and smooth performance.
Want to see a quick explanation? Watch my 30-second YouTube Shorts video on VertiPaq here: