Quick Ways to Retrieve User Lists in PostgreSQL

Retrieving user lists in PostgreSQL can be done quickly using command-line tools or SQL queries. This article explains both methods.

Command-Line Approach with psql

psql allows direct interaction with PostgreSQL, follow these steps:

• Open the terminal.

• Connect using

psql -U <username>

• Retrieve the user list

    \\du
  

• Get more detailed info

    \\du+
  

SQL Query Approach

Access user data from pg_user view in pg_catalog schema:

SELECT * 
FROM pg_catalog.pg_user;

FAQ

How to list superusers?

SELECT * 
FROM pg_catalog.pg_user 
WHERE usesuper = true;

How to list active users?

Query the pg_stat_activity view.

SELECT * 
FROM pg_catalog.pg_stat_activity 
WHERE state = 'active';

Importance of authentication?

Authentication verifies user identity, ensuring secure access to the database.

Conclusion

Listing users in PostgreSQL is easy and quick with psql and SQL queries. For detailed steps, check out Postgres List Users: Two Different Approaches.