Point-in-Time Recovery in PostgreSQL
Point-in-Time Recovery (PITR) in PostgreSQL 16 offers a robust solution for database backup and disaster recovery. PITR revolves around the continuous archiving of WAL (Write-Ahead Logging) files and the ability to restore the database state to any specific moment. This process involves configuring PostgreSQL to archive WAL files, taking regular base backups, and preparing for recovery using these archived files. The recovery procedure includes stopping the server, setting up recovery configurations with desired target times, and restarting the server in recovery mode. PITR is essential for maintaining data integrity and ensuring minimal data loss in critical applications, making it an indispensable feature for comprehensive database management and disaster preparedness in PostgreSQL environments. Implementing Point-in-Time Recovery (PITR) in PostgreSQL 16 with scripts involves several steps:
- Configure WAL Archiving (postgresql.conf):
12345wal_level = replicaarchive_mode = onarchive_command = 'cp %p /path_to_wal_archive/%f' # Replace with your archive path - Take a Base Backup:
123pg_basebackup -h localhost -D /path_to_backup_directory -U postgres -Fp -Xs -P - Restore Procedure:
- Stop the PostgreSQL server if it’s running.
- Create a
recovery.conf
file or usestandby.signal
andpostgresql.conf
for PostgreSQL 12+:
12345touch /var/lib/postgresql/data/standby.signalecho "restore_command = 'cp /path_to_wal_archive/%f %p'" >> /var/lib/postgresql/data/postgresql.confecho "recovery_target_time = '2023-04-13 14:55:00'" >> /var/lib/postgresql/data/postgresql.conf - Start the PostgreSQL server.
- Monitor Recovery:
- Check PostgreSQL logs for the recovery process.
This script-based approach automates the setup for PITR, ensuring you have a consistent and reliable method for disaster recovery.