I currently have about 1000 items in one category. Each time, the item is retrieved very slow. I am wondering if I need to create an index in the mysql to speed up the query time. Can anyone please tell if this is right? If so, how to do it. I cannot find any type of tunning document on it.

Thanks
Kevin

Hello Kevin,

Most of the times the template is what slows down the site. Check your site for JS and 404 errors which 'kill' loading times.

Also check if your cache settings are correct. Using APC can really improve loading times.

As for DB performance I suggest you ask your hosting provider for the proper configuration.

Can you please tell me what's the right cache sitting. What is APC? Any documentation I can for APC.

APC is PHP cache.

You can ask your hosting provider to enable this caching option.
Make sure you have enabled caching in Joomla!'s Global Configuration.