Renaming a PostgreSQL database

PostgreSQL is available on Managed VPS only

Ruachost shared hosting supports MySQL (MariaDB) databases, not PostgreSQL. To use PostgreSQL, choose a Managed VPS.

You may need to rename a PostgreSQL database when migrating data, restructuring accounts, or during site development. On ruachost.com, the steps depend on whether your hosting account includes cPanel access or is an unmanaged account.

Why Rename a Database?

• Align database names with new projects or applications.
• Standardize naming conventions across multiple environments.
• Simplify migrations between accounts or hosting providers.

Steps to Rename a PostgreSQL Database

Managed Accounts with cPanel

If your ruachost.com account includes cPanel access, you can rename a PostgreSQL database directly from the cPanel interface:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. In the DATABASES section, click PostgreSQL Databases.
3. Under Current Databases, locate the database you want to rename.
4. In the Actions column, click Rename.
5. Enter the new name in the dialog box.
6. Click Proceed.
7. cPanel renames the database automatically.

Unmanaged Accounts without cPanel

If your account does not include cPanel, you can rename a PostgreSQL database from the command line:

1. Log in to your server using SSH.

2. At the command prompt, connect to PostgreSQL using a database other than the one you want to rename:

   psql dbname username

   ⚠️ Important: You cannot rename a database while connected to it.

3. Run the following SQL command:

   ALTER DATABASE "old_dbname" RENAME TO "new_dbname";

4. Verify the rename by listing databases:

   \list

Important Notes

• Always back up your database before renaming.
• Update application configuration files to reflect the new database name.
• Ensure no active connections are using the database during the rename.
• Clear cache in applications that rely on the database to avoid mismatches.