PostgreSQL is a robust relational database management system that is used extensively for the construction of online applications and the administration of data. We will show you how to install PostgreSQL on the Ubuntu 18.04 operating system by walking you through the process step by step in this comprehensive tutorial. If you follow these instructions, you will have no trouble installing PostgreSQL and beginning to use it for the project you are working on.
Step 1: Update Packages
Before installing PostgreSQL on Ubuntu 18.04, it’s essential to ensure that your system’s package list is up to date. Open a terminal and execute the following command:
sudo apt update
This command will refresh the package list, ensuring that you have access to the latest available software packages.
Step 2: Install PostgreSQL
Once the package list is updated, you can proceed to install PostgreSQL by running the following command:
sudo apt install postgresqlUbuntu’s package manager, APT, will handle the installation process. It will prompt you to confirm the installation by typing ‘Y’ and pressing ‘Enter.’
Step 3: Start and Enable PostgreSQL
After PostgreSQL is successfully installed, it needs to be started and enabled to run as a system service. Use the following commands to achieve this:
To start PostgreSQL:
sudo systemctl start postgresqlTo enable PostgreSQL to start on boot:
sudo systemctl enable postgresqlStep 4: Verify PostgreSQL Installation
You can verify that PostgreSQL is running by checking its status:
sudo systemctl status postgresqlIf PostgreSQL is active and running, you will see a message indicating that it is active (running).
Step 5: Access the PostgreSQL Prompt
To interact with PostgreSQL, you can access its command-line interface, also known as psql. You can access it by running:
sudo -u postgres psqlThis command allows you to log in to the PostgreSQL prompt as the ‘postgres’ user, the default superuser for PostgreSQL.
Step 6: Set a Password for the PostgreSQL User
By default, PostgreSQL doesn’t set a password for the ‘postgres’ user. It’s crucial to set a password to enhance security. Inside the PostgreSQL prompt, execute the following command to set a password:
\password postgresYou will be prompted to enter a password and confirm it.
Step 7: Create a Database
You can create a new PostgreSQL database for your application by using the following command, replacing ‘mydatabase’ with your desired database name:
CREATE DATABASE mydatabase;Step 8: Create a Database User
Next, create a user who will have access to your database. Replace ‘myuser’ and ‘mypassword’ with your desired username and password:
CREATE USER myuser WITH PASSWORD 'mypassword';Step 9: Grant Privileges
Grant necessary privileges to the user on the database you created. Replace ‘mydatabase’ and ‘myuser’ with your database and username:
GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON DATABASE mydatabase TO myuser;Step 10: Exit PostgreSQL Prompt
Exit the PostgreSQL prompt by typing:
\qYou are now back in the regular terminal session.
Congratulations! Your Ubuntu 18.04 system’s PostgreSQL installation and initial settings are now complete. Strong data storage and retrieval capabilities make this relational database management system an excellent option for a range of applications and projects. You have successfully installed PostgreSQL, set up a database, assigned a user with the necessary rights, and mastered the usage of the PostgreSQL prompt for additional management by following this thorough tutorial.
PostgreSQL is a useful complement to your development stack whether you’re creating sophisticated analytical solutions, online apps, or data-driven services because of its flexibility and scalability. With this foundation in place, you can now fully utilize PostgreSQL, taking advantage of its sophisticated features and capabilities to efficiently fulfill your data management requirements.
As you continue your journey with PostgreSQL, consider exploring its extensive documentation and community resources to deepen your understanding and discover additional features that can enhance your database-driven projects. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting, PostgreSQL offers a reliable and feature-rich platform to store, retrieve, and manipulate your data efficiently.
Embrace PostgreSQL’s power and versatility as you embark on your data-centric endeavors, and don’t hesitate to explore further, experimenting with the various functionalities it provides to unlock new possibilities and streamline your development process. With PostgreSQL on your side, you’re well-equipped to tackle data challenges and build robust, scalable applications that meet the demands of your projects. Enjoy your PostgreSQL journey!
I have extensive experience in the field of IT infrastructure security Regularly work on continuous monitoring of the network and infrastructure, preventing any possible security breach; other tasks and issues related to security. In my free time, I enjoy writing a column for this blog, where I share my experience and knowledge.