Guides
How to connect to AWS RDS PostgreSQL
Connect your desktop database client to AWS RDS PostgreSQL. This guide covers security group configuration, SSL setup, and connection string formatting.
Step by step
1. Get your RDS endpoint
In AWS Console, go to RDS → Databases → your instance. Copy the Endpoint (e.g., mydb.abc123.us-east-1.rds.amazonaws.com) and Port (usually 5432).
2. Configure security groups
Your RDS instance's security group must allow inbound traffic on port 5432 from your IP address. Add a rule: PostgreSQL (5432), Source: My IP.
3. Create database credentials
Use the master username and password you set when creating the RDS instance. For production, create a separate user with limited permissions.
4. Connect in RowDex
Open RowDex, click New Connection, select PostgreSQL. Enter your RDS endpoint as host, 5432 as port, and your username/password. Enable SSL (required by default for RDS).
5. Test and save
Click Test Connection to verify. If successful, save the connection. RowDex stores credentials in your OS keychain.
Tips
- Use 'Publicly accessible: Yes' in RDS settings for direct connections — but restrict security groups to your IP.
- For private RDS instances, use an SSH tunnel through a bastion host.
- Enable 'Force SSL' in RDS parameter groups for encrypted connections.
- Use IAM database authentication for passwordless access with short-lived tokens.
FAQ
Why can't I connect to my RDS instance?
Most connection issues are security group problems. Ensure port 5432 is open to your IP address and 'Publicly accessible' is enabled (or use an SSH tunnel).
Does RowDex support SSL for RDS?
Yes. RowDex supports SSL/TLS connections. Enable SSL in the connection settings and RowDex will use the appropriate RDS certificate.
Can I connect to private RDS instances?
Yes, via SSH tunnel. Set up a bastion host (EC2 instance) in the same VPC and configure RowDex to tunnel through it.
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