Export/import methods

RayDB supports multiple methods for exporting and importing PostgreSQL databases, allowing seamless data transfers for backups, migrations, or data replication.

1. Exporting Data

Using pg_dump

pg_dump creates a logical backup of the database that can be restored into another PostgreSQL instance.

Export to a Compressed Format

pg_dump -Fc -h raydb_host -U raydb_user -d database_name -f backup.dump

Export to a Plain SQL File

pg_dump -h raydb_host -U raydb_user -d database_name -f backup.sql

2. Importing Data

Using pg_restore

For .dump files, use pg_restore to import data:

pg_restore -h raydb_host -U raydb_user -d target_database -1 backup.dump

Using psql

For plain SQL backups, use psql to import:

psql -h raydb_host -U raydb_user -d target_database -f backup.sql

3. Copying Data Between Databases

For quick data transfers, use pg_dump | psql pipeline:

pg_dump -h source_host -U source_user -d source_db | psql -h raydb_host -U raydb_user -d target_db

Best Practices

• Use pg_dump -Fc for large databases to enable selective restores.
• Verify data integrity post-import using row counts and checksums.
• Optimize imports by disabling indexes and constraints during large data loads.

For full migration steps, see Migration Guides.