Which component should ideally run on a separate node to improve performance in a Tableau environment?

Running the File Store on a separate node in a Tableau environment is essential for enhancing performance primarily due to its role in managing static files and extracts. The File Store handles the storage of workbooks, data source extracts, and other files that are utilized by Tableau Server. When the File Store is located on a dedicated node, it allows for focused resource allocation, thereby improving I/O performance and reducing latency when accessing these files.

In a multi-node Tableau architecture, distributing resource-intensive components across different nodes can lead to a well-optimized system. This setup allows other critical operations—such as querying data or refreshing extracts—to continue without interruption, as the File Store handles its specific tasks independently. Additionally, separating the File Store can alleviate bottlenecks, making it particularly beneficial in scenarios where many users are accessing and interacting with large datasets simultaneously.

Given the nature of Tableau's architecture and the way the various components interact with each other, placing the File Store on its own node stands out as a strategic move in optimizing performance. This can lead to a noticeable increase in efficiency and responsiveness in the overall Tableau Server operation.