How to Install PostgreSQL on Linux

What this is

This guide explains how to install PostgreSQL (a popular relational database) on Linux.

What it is for

• Run applications that require PostgreSQL
• Use a powerful SQL database with strong features

Prerequisites

• SSH + sudo

Step-by-step by distribution

A) Ubuntu/Debian

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y postgresql postgresql-contrib
sudo systemctl enable --now postgresql

B) CentOS/RHEL/Rocky/AlmaLinux

sudo dnf install -y postgresql-server postgresql-contrib
sudo postgresql-setup --initdb || true
sudo systemctl enable --now postgresql

Step 2) Verify service

sudo systemctl status postgresql --no-pager

Step 3) Test local access

sudo -i -u postgres psql

Expected output: postgres=# prompt.

Exit:

q

Warnings & notes

• Do not expose PostgreSQL port 5432 to the internet unless you know what you are doing.
• For remote access, use private networks/VPN and proper pg_hba.conf configuration.

Conclusion

PostgreSQL is installed and running. Next steps: create a database/user and secure remote access if needed.