How to Export PostgreSQL Database

Exporting a PostgreSQL database is an important task for any database administrator. It allows for making backups, moving data to another server, or sharing it with other team members. In this article, we will discuss different methods to export data from the PostgreSQL database, including using phpPgAdmin, the command line tool pg_dump, and a GUI tool called dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL. 

Additionally, we will look at the pros and cons of each method to help you make an informed decision on which method is best for your specific needs. Whether you are looking to make a backup, move data to another server, or share it with your team, this guide will show you how to easily move your psql export database.

Let’s get to it.

Use phpPgAdmin

First, here are the general steps to use phpPgAdmin to export the PostgreSQL database

1. Log in to your web hosting account and access the cPanel.

2. Locate the database section and click on the phpPgAdmin icon.

3. In the phpPgAdmin interface, expand the “Servers” option, followed by the “PostgreSQL” option.

4. Select the database that you wish to export from the list.

5. Click on the “Export” button located on the top menu bar.

6. Select the “Structure and data” option and choose “SQL” as the format.

7. Click on the “Download” button to initiate the export process.

8. Confirm the export by clicking on the “Export” button.

9. A file dialog box will appear; select a location to save the exported file and click “Save” to complete the export process.

It is worth noting that the above steps may vary depending on the hosting provider and version of phpPgAdmin you are using. 

Pros

• It is user-friendly..
• Accessible from any device with a web browser, allowing for remote management.
• Multiple export options (SQL, CSV, XML) are available.
• It can connect to multiple PostgreSQL servers, allowing for easy management of multiple databases.

Cons

• The risks of attempting a DIY installation
• Less control over the export process than command-line tools like pg_dump.
• There are security risks if not properly secured.
• Limited features compared to other tools like pgAdmin or dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL.

You should always check if your hosting provider supports phpPgAdmin and if it’s compatible with your PostgreSQL version before attempting any export.

Data export with pg_dump

To export a PostgreSQL database using the pg_dump program, the following steps should be taken:

1. Open the command prompt or terminal on the computer where the database is stored.

2. Use the pg_dump command to export the database by typing the following command and hitting enter:

pg_dump -U [username] [database_name] > [dump_file.sql]

This command creates a file named dump_file.sql that contains all of the data for the [database_name] database. You can choose any name for the file.

3. Enter the password for the username specified in the command

4. If the dump_file.sql is on a remote computer, download it to your local computer.

5. As an option, you can exclude certain data from the export by using the following command instead:

pg_dump -U [username] –exclude-schema=[schema_name] [database_name] > [dump_file.sql]

Remember that this process requires a good understanding of command-line interfaces and PostgreSQL before attempting to use pg_dump.

Pros and Cons

When using pg_dump to export a PostgreSQL database, there are some things to keep in mind:

Pros

• You can choose what to export, like specific tables or schemas.
• You can automate and schedule exports.
• Available on most operating systems.
• You can compress the exported file, which saves space.

Cons

• It requires some technical knowledge and experience with the command line.

It doesn’t have a graphical user interface since it’s a command-line tool. Thus, not quite user-friendly 

• Since it’s a command-line tool, there is a risk of human error, like typos or wrong options.
• It only exports the database in SQL format, unlike other tools that support other formats like XML and CSV.

It’s important to remember that these pros and cons may vary depending on the specific version, setup, and use case. It’s always recommended to evaluate the specific requirements and the options available before making a decision

Export using GUI tool – dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL

Exporting a PostgreSQL database using dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL can be done by following these steps:

1. Connect to the desired PostgreSQL export database on the opened dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL software. 

2. Locate and select the export button on the toolbar or navigate to “Database” > “Export” in the menu.

3. Select the tables or schemas you want to include in the export.

4. Choose the format for the exported file, such as SQL, CSV, XML, etc.
6. Initiate the export process by clicking on “Start Export” button.

7. Select a location to save the exported file, and then click on “Save”

8. The export process will begin, and you will be able to track the progress.

9. Once the export is complete, you will receive a notification that the export was successful.

Remember that these processes are general and differ depending on the version of the tool and the user’s setup.

Pros

• The graphical user interface makes it simple to export a PostgreSQL database, even for non-technical users.
• Different export options are available: It supports multiple export formats like SQL, CSV, XML, etc.
• You can manage multiple databases because dbForge for PostgreSQL allows you to connect to multiple PostgreSQL servers.

Cons

• It’s a paid tool and requires an investment.
• Available for Windows, macOS and Linux
• It’s not open-source.

With dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL, always evaluate the specific requirements and the options available before making a decision.

Summary

Exporting a PostgreSQL database is a breeze with the various methods available! We talked about the user-friendly web-based tool phpPgAdmin, the versatile command-line tool pg_dump, and the intuitive GUI tool for PostgreSQL.

Each method has its unique perks, and it’s essential to choose the one that suits your needs best. Whether you’re looking for ease of use, flexibility, or automation, there’s a method for you!