PostgreSQL Performance Tuning: 15 Configuration Tips for Production Databases

PostgreSQL default configuration is designed for compatibility, not performance. These tips will optimize your production database.

Memory Configuration

shared_buffers = 4GB
effective_cache_size = 12GB
work_mem = 64MB
maintenance_work_mem = 1GB

WAL Configuration

wal_buffers = 64MB
checkpoint_completion_target = 0.9
max_wal_size = 4GB

Connection Pooling

[pgbouncer]
pool_mode = transaction
max_client_conn = 1000
default_pool_size = 50

Query Optimization

EXPLAIN (ANALYZE, BUFFERS)
SELECT * FROM orders WHERE created_at > NOW() - INTERVAL '30 days';
CREATE INDEX idx_orders_created ON orders (created_at DESC);

Additional Optimizations

max_parallel_workers_per_gather = 4
autovacuum_max_workers = 4
log_min_duration_statement = 500
random_page_cost = 1.1
effective_io_concurrency = 200
jit = on

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