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Self-Hosting Database

If you prefer to manage your own database instead of using a cloud provider, you can self-host PostgreSQL.
In this guide, we’ll install PostgreSQL locally, use pgAdmin to manage it, and create the database required for OpenUGC.

1. Install PostgreSQL and pgAdmin​

Download and install PostgreSQL from the official website:
👉 https://www.postgresql.org/download/

During installation, you’ll also have the option to install pgAdmin, a graphical tool to manage your PostgreSQL server.

  • Choose a password for the default postgres user (keep it safe — you’ll need it later).
  • Once finished, you should have both PostgreSQL and pgAdmin installed.

2. Open pgAdmin and Connect to Your Server​

  1. Launch pgAdmin.
  2. On the left sidebar, expand Servers → PostgreSQL.
  3. Enter the password you set for the postgres user during installation.
  4. You are now connected to your local PostgreSQL server.

3. Create a New Database​

  1. In pgAdmin, right-click Databases → Create → Database.
  2. Enter a name for your database (e.g. openugc).
  3. Leave the owner as postgres (or assign another user if you prefer).
  4. Click Save.

Your database is now created and ready for use! 🎉

4. (Optional) Create a Dedicated User​

For better security, you can create a separate user instead of using the default postgres superuser.

  1. In pgAdmin, go to Login/Group Roles → Right-click → Create → Login/Group Role.
  2. Enter a username (e.g. ugc_user).
  3. Under Definition, set a password.
  4. Under Privileges, give the user Can login and Create DB if needed.
  5. Click Save.
  6. Assign this user to your database:
    • Right-click your database → Properties → Security → Privileges → Add your user with ALL privileges.

5. Collect Your Connection Information​

You’ll need the following details when setting up OpenUGC:

  • Host: for testing just localhost
  • Port: default is 5432
  • Database name: openugc (or your db name)
  • Username: postgres (or your custom user)
  • Password: the one you set during installation

Now that your database is running locally, follow the instructions in the Host API section to configure OpenUGC to use your new PostgreSQL database.