DTrace is a comprehensive dynamic tracing framework used for troubleshooting kernel and application problems on production systems in real time. It helps track down performance problems across many layers of software, and locates the cause of the unexpected behavior. DTrace is a powerful dynamic tracing tool that can trace any part of the system.
The salient features of DTrace are as follows:
Enables dynamic modification of the system to record arbitrary data
Can be used on any application without having to recompile and restart the application
Uses very little additional system calls when a system is activated
Allows tracing of both the kernel and user-level programs
Functions with minimal overhead when tracing is enabled and zero overhead when tracing is not being performed
Does not stop the program’s execution after every system call and therefore can be used on production systems without fear of a crash
Can be used on production systems to find performance bottlenecks
Enables maximum resource utilization and application performance, as well as precise quantification of resource requirements
For more information, see Oracle Solaris 11.4 DTrace (Dynamic Tracing) Guide.