PostgreSQL is one of the most successful open source databases available. It is arguably also the most advanced, with a wide range of features that challenge even many closed-source databases.

This book is intended to be a practical guide to PostgreSQL v7.1.x, though most of the book should also apply to earlier and future releases of PostgreSQL. The content is focused on getting you comfortable with PostgreSQL in the most expedient fashion possible. Although we will touch on some academic database subjects, such discussion will be kept brief. Our core focus is to provide the reader with enough of an understanding of PostgreSQL to manage a fully operational PostgreSQL database. Our hope is that by introducing this book to the community we will provide a better understanding of PostgreSQL and its functionality.