{"id":11547,"date":"2026-01-16T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-16T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.credativ.de\/blog\/credativ-inside\/what-is-postgresql-the-complete-beginners-guide\/"},"modified":"2026-01-16T08:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-01-16T07:00:00","slug":"what-is-postgresql-the-complete-beginners-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.credativ.de\/en\/blog\/credativ-inside\/what-is-postgresql-the-complete-beginners-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"What is PostgreSQL? The complete beginner’s guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

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. <\/p>\n

What is PostgreSQL and why do so many companies use it?<\/h2>\n

\"Slonik,<\/p>\n

PostgreSQL is an object-relational database management system<\/strong> 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. <\/p>\n

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. <\/p>\n

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. <\/p>\n

How does PostgreSQL differ from other databases like MySQL?<\/h2>\n

PostgreSQL and MySQL differ in several important areas, with both having their specific strengths. PostgreSQL offers advanced data types<\/strong> 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. <\/p>\n

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. <\/p>\n