Net-A-Porter has upgraded from a free version of its database software to a paid-for one to support its continued growth.

The e-tailer used the free, open-source edition of MySQL for a number of years. It has upgraded to the commercial database package to allow it to cost-effectively scale its database infrastructure, while maintaining quality service.

MySQL database server uses what is called the scale out application architecture, which allows the replication of multiple database servers on low-cost commodity hardware. This is much cheaper than the traditional scale up approach of replacing systems with larger, more complex and more expensive infrastructure.

The retailer has chosen a gold subscription, meaning it receives production-tested software, active monitoring tools and premium support services.

Net-A-Porter said the move was necessary to ensure the business can continue to offer high levels of service to its customer base.

More than 1 million consumers visit Net-A-Porter each month.