pg_background: Make Postgres do the long work (while your session stays light)
7 days ago
- #Async
- #PostgreSQL
- #Database
- pg_background allows PostgreSQL to execute SQL commands asynchronously in background worker processes, freeing up client sessions.
- Key features include non-blocking operations, autonomous transactions, resource isolation, and server-side observability.
- Common use cases include background maintenance tasks (VACUUM, ANALYZE), async backfills, audit writes, and deferred heavy operations.
- The v2 API introduces safer handles (PID + cookie) to prevent PID reuse issues and offers better monitoring and control.
- Recent updates (v1.6 to v1.8) focus on production hardening, security, memory efficiency, and operational controls.
- Important operational considerations include managing max_worker_processes, understanding detach vs. cancel, and using observability tools.
- pg_background is designed to be a simple, reliable tool for async execution within PostgreSQL, minimizing the need for external job systems.