PostgreSQL Database Service

Learn how to manage PostgreSQL databases in Andasy.

The postgres command allows you to provision and manage PostgreSQL databases as services within Andasy. PostgreSQL is a powerful, open-source relational database that's widely used for web applications, APIs, and data-driven services.

What is a Database Service?

A database service in Andasy is a PostgreSQL instance that runs as a separate application on the platform. When you create a PostgreSQL service, Andasy handles the initial setup:

  • A new application is created specifically for the database
  • PostgreSQL is automatically installed and configured
  • A volume is created for persistent data storage
  • Connection credentials are generated automatically
  • The database is accessible via the Andasy private network

You Manage PostgreSQL:

While Andasy handles the initial setup and installation, you are responsible for managing PostgreSQL. This includes:

  • Database backups and restores
  • PostgreSQL configuration and tuning
  • Database updates and maintenance
  • User and permission management
  • Performance monitoring and optimization

You can manage PostgreSQL through SSH access (andasy ssh) or by connecting with standard PostgreSQL tools.

When to Use PostgreSQL Service

Use the PostgreSQL service when your application needs:

  • Relational data - Structured data with relationships (users, orders, products, etc.)
  • ACID transactions - Guaranteed data consistency and reliability
  • SQL queries - Complex queries and data analysis
  • Data integrity - Foreign keys, constraints, and validation
  • Concurrent access - Multiple applications or services accessing the same database

The PostgreSQL service is ideal for web applications, APIs, content management systems, e-commerce platforms, and any application that requires reliable, structured data storage.

This command can be accessed using any of the following aliases:

  • postgres
  • pg

Usage

andasy database postgres

Creating a PostgreSQL Service

To create a PostgreSQL database service, run:

andasy database postgres create -a <db-app-name> [flags]

You can also use the shorter alias:

andasy db pg create -a <db-app-name> [flags]

Available Flags

FlagDescription
--generate-nameGenerate a random app name for the database service
-a, --appThe name of the app (required). This will be the name of your database service
-h, --helpShow help for the command
-j, --jsonOutput result in JSON format
--nameThe app name to use (alternative to -a)
-o, --orgTarget Andasy organization (required if you belong to multiple organizations)
-p, --passwordSuperuser password for the database. If not set, a random secure password will be generated
-s, --sizeVolume size in GB for database storage (default: 1). Choose based on your data needs
--volumeVolume name for database data storage (default: "data-source")

Connecting to Your PostgreSQL Database

After creating a PostgreSQL service, you'll need connection information to connect your application. The database is accessible via:

  • Host: The database service's private network address (use the <db-app-name>.internal domain)
  • Port: 5432 (standard PostgreSQL port)
  • Database: postgres (default database)
  • User: postgres (superuser)
  • Password: The password you set (or the generated one)

Connection Details

Database connection details are displayed once after creating the service. Make sure to save them as you won't be able to retrieve them after the service is created.

Connecting from Your Application

Your application can connect to the PostgreSQL service using standard PostgreSQL connection libraries. The connection string format is:

postgresql://postgres:PASSWORD@<db-app-name>.internal:5432/postgres

Replace:

  • PASSWORD with your database password
  • <db-app-name> with your PostgreSQL service app name

Since both your application and the database run on Andasy's private network, you can connect directly using the service's app name as the hostname.

Managing Your PostgreSQL Service

Once created, your PostgreSQL service is a regular Andasy application. You manage PostgreSQL yourself through:

  • SSH access: andasy ssh -a <db-app-name> to access the machine and run psql commands
  • Direct connection: Connect using PostgreSQL clients (psql, pgAdmin, etc.) via the proxy command or private network
  • Application management: Use standard Andasy commands to manage the underlying application:
    • View logs: andasy logs -a <db-app-name>
    • Restart: andasy apps restart -a <db-app-name>

You're responsible for PostgreSQL-specific tasks like creating databases, managing users, configuring PostgreSQL settings, performing backups, and handling updates.

  • Volumes - Learn about persistent storage for databases
  • Proxy - Connect to your database from your local machine for development
  • Secrets - Securely store database credentials
  • Apps - General application management