Hector (Cassandra) Delete Anomaly

Question

Using hector (cassandra client) when I try to do delete, it deletes the columns…but leaves the row key behind…does anyone know why, and how can I delete that row key as well ?

Answer 1

This is expected when using Cassandra. Since it deletes by writing tombstones the data is still there until the next compaction. Eventually it will go a way completely, but your application code must be aware that an empty row is the same as a deleted row.

Answer 2

Actually, it will go away in the next compaction that happens after the grace period for that row.

Check this out: Wikipedia