What is PostgreSQL? The complete beginner's guide

PostgreSQL is an open-source object-relational database that has been under development since 1986. It is characterized by ACID compliance, high extensibility, and strong SQL support. Companies value PostgreSQL for its reliability, performance, and cost-free nature. This guide answers the most important questions about the installation, configuration, and use of PostgreSQL in a corporate environment.

What is PostgreSQL and why do so many companies use it?

PostgreSQL is an object-relational database management system that is available as free open-source software. The database originated from the POSTGRES project at the University of California and has been continuously developed since 1986. PostgreSQL supports both relational and non-relational data structures and is considered one of the most advanced open-source databases worldwide.

The main features of PostgreSQL include ACID compliance for transaction security, Multi-Version Concurrency Control (MVCC) for concurrent access, and comprehensive SQL support. The database software also offers advanced data types such as JSON, XML, and arrays, as well as the ability to define custom functions and data types.

Companies of various sizes rely on PostgreSQL because it offers a stable and scalable solution for complex applications. The active developer community ensures regular updates and security patches. In addition, the free license allows for use without license costs, which is particularly attractive for growing companies.

How does PostgreSQL differ from other databases like MySQL?

PostgreSQL and MySQL differ in several important areas, with both having their specific strengths. PostgreSQL offers advanced data types such as JSON, JSONB, arrays, and geometric types, while MySQL focuses on basic SQL data types. PostgreSQL often shows better performance with complex queries and joins, while MySQL is often faster with simple read operations.

Licensing also differs: PostgreSQL is under the PostgreSQL license, which is very permissive, similar to the BSD license. MySQL uses dual licensing with GPL for open-source projects and commercial licenses for proprietary software. This can be relevant when deciding on commercial applications.

• PostgreSQL is particularly suitable for applications with complex data structures, analytical workloads, and when strict ACID compliance is required. For example, PostgreSQL natively supports geo-data and operations on geometric structures with the PostGIS extension.
• MySQL is often chosen for web applications, content management systems, and situations where simple configuration and high read performance are paramount.

Both databases have strong communities and professional support available.

What advantages does PostgreSQL offer for companies?

PostgreSQL offers companies significant cost advantages through the open-source license, as there are no license fees. This also enables small and medium-sized enterprises to build a professional database infrastructure. The saved license costs can be invested in hardware, development, or professional support.

PostgreSQL’s security standards meet enterprise requirements with features such as Row-Level-Security, SSL encryption, and comprehensive authentication options. The database supports various compliance standards and offers detailed audit functions for regulated industries.

PostgreSQL scales both vertically and horizontally and grows with the demands of your company. Independence from individual manufacturers prevents vendor lock-in and gives you the flexibility to obtain support and services from various providers. The large community and open development model ensure continuous innovation and long-term availability.

How to install and configure PostgreSQL correctly? Simple example:

The PostgreSQL installation is done in different ways depending on the operating system. Under Ubuntu/Debian, for example, use the command sudo apt-get install postgresql postgresql-contrib. For Windows, download the official installer from postgresql.org. macOS users can install PostgreSQL via Homebrew with brew install postgresql.

After the installation, you must start the PostgreSQL service and create a database user. Under Linux, this is done with sudo systemctl start postgresql and sudo -u postgres createuser --interactive. The basic configuration is done via the files postgresql.conf for general settings and pg_hba.conf for authentication.

This means that you are ready for a test on most Linux distributions. For more demanding applications, you should of course make further considerations, such as whether you want to rely on the packages and versions supplied with the respective distribution or whether you want to concentrate on the packages from PostgreSQL.org. A performant database server also requires considerations regarding the underlying file system and its optimization.

For productive use, you should also make important security settings:

• Change the default password of the postgres user, if one has been assigned
• Configure SSL encryption for network connections
• Restrict access via pg_hba.conf to necessary IP ranges
• Enable logging for audit purposes
• Set up regular backups

How credativ® supports PostgreSQL projects

credativ® offers comprehensive PostgreSQL support for companies that need professional support for their database infrastructure. Our service includes 24/7 support from experienced PostgreSQL specialists who are immediately available for critical problems. You get direct access to our German support team without detours via international call centers. We are happy to help you and support you in the selection of open-source tools.

Our PostgreSQL services in detail:

• Migration from other database systems to PostgreSQL
• Installation consulting and audit of an existing installation
• Performance optimization and tuning of existing installations
• High availability setups with replication and clustering
• Backup and recovery strategies for maximum data security
• Monitoring and proactive maintenance of your PostgreSQL environment
• Long Term Support, which gives you time to complete the upgrades.

As PostgreSQL experts with over 20 years of experience, we help you to exploit the full potential of your database. Contact us for a non-binding consultation on your PostgreSQL project and find out how we can optimize your database infrastructure.

Postgres, PostgreSQL and the Slonik logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of the PostgreSQL Community Association of Canada and are used with their permission.

About the author

Peter Dreuw

Head of Sales & Marketing

about the person

Peter Dreuw arbeitet seit 2016 für die credativ GmbH und ist seit 2017 Teamleiter. Seit 2021 ist er Teil des Management-Teams als VP Services der Instaclustr. Mit der Übernahme durch die NetApp wurde seine neue Rolle "Senior Manager Open Source Professional Services". Im Rahmen der Ausgründung wurde er Mitglied der Geschäftsleitung als Prokurist. Sein Aufgabenfeld ist die Leitung des Vertriebs und des Marketings. Er ist Linux-Nutzer der ersten Stunden und betreibt Linux-Systeme seit Kernel 0.97. Trotz umfangreicher Erfahrung im operativen Bereich ist er leidenschaftlicher Softwareentwickler und kennt sich auch mit hardwarenahen Systemen gut aus.

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