Local PostgreSQL

local Local PostgreSQL#

Local PostgreSQL refers to a PostgreSQL server instance running on the same machine as pgAdmin. It allows developers to manage databases locally using a PostgreSQL service that listens on localhost without requiring a network connection.

What is Local PostgreSQL?#

Local PostgreSQL means that the PostgreSQL server is running on the same machine where you are using pgAdmin.

In case:

  • pgAdmin ✔

  • PostgreSQL ✔

both are running on your laptop.

What “local” actually means

“Local” does NOT mean:

  • Simple

  • Limited

  • Only for learning

“Local” means:

  • Host: localhost or 127.0.0.1

  • PostgreSQL runs as a local system service

  • Connections stay inside your computer

Technically:

  • No internet required

  • No remote network involved

How pgAdmin sees “Local PostgreSQL”

In pgAdmin’s Object Explorer:

Servers (1)
└── Local PostgreSQL
This tells us:

  • PostgreSQL is installed locally

  • pgAdmin is connected to it

  • The server name is just a label (“Local PostgreSQL”)

The name can be changed — it’s not special.

What is running behind “Local PostgreSQL”?#

When you install PostgreSQL locally:

  • A background process starts (the PostgreSQL server)

  • It listens on a port (usually 5432)

  • It manages:

  • Databases

  • Users (roles)

  • Permissions

  • Connections

Even locally, PostgreSQL behaves like a real server.

Example (technical view)

Host: localhost
Port: 5432
User: sherullahmohtat
Service: PostgreSQL
This is exactly the same setup used in:

  • Production servers

  • Cloud databases

  • Remote machines

Only the location changes.

Local vs Remote PostgreSQL#

Feature

Local PostgreSQL

Remote PostgreSQL

Runs on

Your computer

Another machine

Internet required

❌ No

✅ Yes

Speed

Very fast

Network dependent

Use case

Development, learning

Production

Note

Summary

Local PostgreSQL means PostgreSQL is running on your own computer and is accessed through localhost.

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