PostgreSQL (pronounced "post-gress-queue-ell") is an open-source database management system and is offered on our systems as an alternative to the popular MySQL database server.
Generally, MySQL and PostgreSQL are the same, storing data in tables, grouped into in a database, all of which can be queried using the SQL language (Structured Query Language).
However, one of the biggest differences is their level of support for the SQL92 and SQL99 standards - PostgreSQL supports many more of the features and settings (such as Views and Triggers). However, MySQL is catching up. These features do come at the price of speed. Although no slouch, for most functions and requests, MySQL is faster than PostgreSQL.
Also, while MySQL has a full company built around it (MySQL AB), providing enterprise-level support and maintenance, PostgreSQL is managed entirely by the open-source community.
What is PostgreSQL used for?
PostgreSQL is used in the same situations as MySQL - when you need store data in a central location with the ability to retrieve it fast, as well as perform functions based on that data and/or combine it in some form.
Database servers provide the back-end to many websites now, with systems such as blogs, forums and even Plesk using it to store, manage and retrieve the data (although Plesk uses MySQL).
Who uses PostgreSQL?
While many companies utilise PostgreSQL, some of the more prominent companies are:
- GreenPeace
- Sony Online
For more information on MySQL and Databases in general, please see the following articles:
