What is postgres (PostgreSQL) on Mac?
By Junaid, maker of Taskglass · Last reviewed
The PostgreSQL database server, often installed for development via Homebrew or Postgres.app.
postgres is the PostgreSQL database server. It normally appears as several processes: a main one plus background workers and one per connection, which is expected. It's usually installed by developers (Homebrew, Postgres.app) or bundled with an app that needs a database.
- Category
- Developer tools
- Made by
- PostgreSQL Global Development Group (open source)
- Safe to quit:
- With care
Shown in Activity Monitor as postgres
Why is postgres (PostgreSQL) using so much CPU or memory?
- Running queries, imports or migrations
- Automatic maintenance (autovacuum) on large tables
- Many open connections from apps or tests
What to do
- 1Check which app or project is using the database
- 2Stop the server when you don't need it ('brew services stop postgresql' or from Postgres.app)
- 3Let large imports or maintenance finish
Safe to quit? With care.
Stop the database properly rather than force quitting, to avoid recovery on next start.
Related processes
Part of the Taskglass Process Library