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    How to Secure PostgreSQL

    Step-by-step guide to securing your PostgreSQL database with Row Level Security and best practices.

    PostgreSQL Security Context

    PostgreSQL is known for excellent security features including Row Level Security. It powers Supabase and Neon. Proper configuration of RLS, roles, and network access is essential.

    Security Checklist

    1

    Enable Row Level Security

    Critical

    Use RLS policies to control data access at the row level.

    2

    Configure role-based access

    Critical

    Create specific roles with minimal necessary permissions.

    3

    Enable SSL/TLS connections

    Critical

    Require encrypted connections for all database traffic.

    4

    Prevent SQL injection

    Critical

    Use parameterized queries and prepared statements.

    5

    Secure pg_hba.conf

    Critical

    Configure host-based authentication appropriately.

    6

    Use strong passwords

    Critical

    Set strong passwords for all database users.

    7

    Enable audit logging

    Configure pgAudit for comprehensive logging.

    8

    Enable encryption at rest

    Configure storage encryption for data files.

    9

    Review connection limits

    Set appropriate connection pool limits.

    10

    Configure statement timeouts

    Set timeouts to prevent resource exhaustion.

    11

    Review extensions

    Audit installed extensions for security.

    12

    Set up backups

    Configure automated encrypted backups.

    13

    Review network access

    Restrict database access to trusted IPs.

    14

    Configure pg_stat_statements

    Monitor query patterns for suspicious activity.

    15

    Review replication security

    Secure replication connections.

    16

    Enable connection pooling security

    Configure PgBouncer or similar securely.

    17

    Run security scan

    Use VibeEval to scan your application.

    Related Resources

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