Installing PostgreSQL / MySQL

Introduction

To learn SQL the right way you need a real database on your machine. We recommend PostgreSQL — it is open source, ACID-compliant and used by serious companies. MySQL is the second most popular and equally valid for learning.

Beginner analogy: installing a database is like installing a kitchen. You only do it once, then you cook (query) for years.

Understanding the topic

Core concepts to understand:

• Mac: brew install postgresql@16 then brew services start.
• Windows: download the EnterpriseDB installer → run pgAdmin.
• Linux: sudo apt install postgresql.
• MySQL: brew install mysql or use Docker.
• Use Docker for a clean, disposable setup: docker run -e POSTGRES_PASSWORD=pw postgres.

Syntax reference

Visual workflow / architecture:

Local Machine
   │
   ├── postgres (port 5432)
   │     └── psql / pgAdmin / DBeaver
   │
   └── mysql (port 3306)
         └── mysql CLI / Workbench / DBeaver

Docker:  postgres:16  →  -p 5432:5432  →  client tools

Real-world use

Most companies run Postgres or MySQL inside Docker locally and on managed services like AWS RDS, Google Cloud SQL or Supabase in production.

Best practices

• Use Docker locally so you can wipe and restart anytime.
• Install DBeaver as a free GUI client.
• Set a strong password from day one — habits matter.

Hands-on exercise

Interview preparation — practice these questions:

• Q1. Default port of Postgres? MySQL?
• Q2. What is psql?
• Q3. Why use Docker for local databases?
• Q4. Difference between server and client tools.
• Q5. What is a managed database service?