Using SQLite for a PHP SaaS

What you get

SQLite runs inside the application process and stores data in a local database file. Simple Stack enables WAL mode, uses prepared queries and applies numbered migrations. That removes the need to operate a separate database server for the default deployment.

The tradeoffs

WAL supports readers alongside a writer, but SQLite still permits one writer at a time. Long transactions, heavy write traffic and filesystem choices can cause contention. There is no universal requests-per-second figure that proves your application will fit.

What to try first

Keep transactions short, index real query patterns, use consistent backups and verify restores. Load-test realistic reads and writes. Consider a server database when the concurrency, availability or multi-server requirements justify it; the included MySQL guide describes a migration task, not a one-switch completed port.

SQLite appropriate-use guidance