PostgreSQL 18 Enables Instant Database Cloning with Reflinks
By
radimm
The bagel they save for the regulars. Don't skim, savour.
Summary
The article explains how PostgreSQL 18 introduces new file copy options that enable instant database cloning using reflinks, solving the problem of slow database copying for testing, development, and learning environments. It contrasts traditional slow copy methods with the new approach that can create database clones in milliseconds regardless of database size, making it ideal for CI/CD pipelines, testing suites, and educational purposes.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledWhen your database is a few megabytes, pg_dump and restore works fine. But what happens when you're dealing with hundreds of megabytes/gigabytes - or more? Suddenly 'just make a copy' becomes a burden.
PostgreSQL 18 introduces new file copy options that enable instant database cloning using reflinks, turning slow template copies into milliseconds.
The new approach can create database clones in milliseconds regardless of database size, making it ideal for CI/CD pipelines, testing suites, and educational purposes.
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