Why is Image Retrieval Slow in Ionic Apps Using Base64 Encoding, and How Can I Improve Performance?

Slowness in Image Management from Database

In Ionic Framework, users encounter delays when retrieving and displaying images from a database using base 64 encoding. This process involves encoding the image to text and storing it in the database, then decoding it for display, resulting in increased size and sluggish performance.

Why Slow?

• Base64 Encoding: This method is not a compression technique and increases the image size by 30%.
• Oversized Storage: Encoded images take up more space in the database.
• Overhead in Encoding/Decoding: The process of converting to and from text adds extra time.

Solution: Store Images as Files

The best practice is to store images as files instead of in a database. This is more efficient for:

• Performance: Web servers cache files better than database contents.
• Security: You can set file permissions and restrict access without disclosing the file's structure (which can expose PHP bugs).

Avoid Gzip/Compression

Contrary to belief, compressing images (e.g., with Gzip) offers negligible space savings and may actually decrease performance. Images are already optimized formats that cannot be compressed significantly further.

Specific Needs:

You mention security as a concern. If images need to be secure, consider:

• Splitting Storage: Store file paths in the database and save the files on a separate file system that restricts access based on user permissions.
• Centralized Storage: Avoid creating numerous folders and subfolders. Use a file system like BTRFS designed for large-scale storage.

Database Optimization:

While files should be stored separately, database optimization is still crucial. Use the database to manage file information (e.g., path, owner, permissions), ensuring efficient search and retrieval operations.

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