The query optimization problem has been widely addressed in Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS). Many strategies have been implemented to solve this problem including deterministic algorithms, randomized algorithms, meta-heuristic algorithms and hybrid approaches. This book provides a literature review that includes solutions to the join-ordering problem using simulated annealing, genetic algorithms and ant colony optimization. Such methodologies deeply depend on the correct configuration of various input parameters. This book also introduces a new meta-heuristic approach based on...