What is PGXN?

PGXN, the PostgreSQL Extension network, is a central distribution system for open-source PostgreSQL extension libraries. In its first iteration it will consist of four basic parts:

  • An upload and distribution infrastructure for extension developers.
  • A centralized index and API of distribution metadata.
  • A website for searching extensions and perusing their documentation.
  • A command-line client for downloading, testing, and installing extensions.

Why?

One of the primary distinguishing features of PostgreSQL—and perhaps the number one reason to use it instead of another DBMS—is its extensibility and the large number of database extensions already available: PostGIS, ISN, hstore, pgTAP, BioPostgres, PL/R, PL/Proxy, Golconde, pgmemcache, and more. PostgreSQL today is not merely a database, it’s an application development platform. However, many of these extensions are virtually unknown even among experienced users because they are hard to find.

PGXN intends to solve the “hard to find” issue by providing centralized listings and searchable documentation for PostgreSQL extensions. You’ll be able to easily search through extensions, browse their documentation, and download and install those that fill your needs. The site will be structured to maximize the ability to find appropriate extensions and their documentation through search engines. Our hope is that the high visibility of PostgreSQL’s extensibility and they array of available extensions will drive PostgreSQL adoption by new users and application developers, expanding our community and ensuring another 10 years of the PostgreSQL Project.

Project Status

Work has begun! The network has been created and a number of mirrors already added. Care to add your own mirror?

As work continues, be sure to read the blog for status updates and requests for comments on various design issues. And check in with the project status to see how things are going.

Yes, we’re still raising funds for the project, until we reach our goal. Keep an eye on our fundraising thermometer to track how close we are to meeting it. And please get in touch if you’re interested in sponsoring the project.

Who’s Doing This?

I am. I’m David Wheeler, inveterate Perl and PostgreSQL hacker. I love the extensibility of PostgreSQL and have long been a fan of CPAN, the Perl community’s distributed collection of Perl software and documentation. But PostgreSQL’s extensibility is not well-known, and it’s difficult to find the extensions that do exist. I’d like to solve that problem. Care to help?

Founders

Many thanks to our amazing “Founder” level contributors:

myYearbook.com   PGX Dalibo

Patrons

Appreciation to our “Patron” level contributor:

e Enova Financial

Benefactors

Thanks also to our terrific “Benefactor” level contributors:

Help the PostgreSQL community build its own extension search and distribution platform.

Thermometer

Goals Met!