PostGIS for PostgreSQL 1.4

PostgreSQL Global Development Group ❘ Open Source

Unlocking Spatial Data with PostGIS: A Powerful Spatial Database Extension

Boris Weber

02/07/2025

PostGIS transforms PostgreSQL into a robust spatial database, providing advanced geospatial capabilities that are essential for GIS applications.

PostGIS is an open-source software developed by the PostgreSQL Global Development Group to manage geographic and spatial data in a PostgreSQL database. With PostGIS, users can store, retrieve and analyze complex geographic data including points, lines, polygons and more.

PostGIS also offers a suite of tools and functions to process data that support Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mapping applications. This includes spatial queries for filtering data by location, nearest neighbor analyses, distance calculations and more.

One of the most significant benefits of PostGIS is its ability to integrate with other open-source GIS tools, including QGIS and GeoServer, making it an essential tool for GIS professionals and developers.

Moreover, PostGIS allows for efficient indexing of complex geographic data, enabling faster data retrieval and improved query performance. It is also compatible with web applications, allowing users to create dynamic maps on websites with interactive features that update in real-time.

PostGIS is an indispensable tool for those working with geographic and spatial data in PostgreSQL databases.

Overview

PostGIS for PostgreSQL is a Open Source software in the category Servers developed by PostgreSQL Global Development Group.

The latest version of PostGIS for PostgreSQL is 1.4, released on 12/14/2009. It was initially added to our database on 10/30/2007.

PostGIS for PostgreSQL runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

Users of PostGIS for PostgreSQL gave it a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

Pros

Open-source software with a permissive license, allowing for flexibility and customization.
Seamless integration with PostgreSQL, providing spatial database capabilities.
Extensive support for spatial data types, functions, and operations.
Advanced spatial analysis capabilities, such as proximity analysis, overlay functions, and geocoding.
Scalability and performance optimizations for handling large volumes of spatial data.
Active community support with frequent updates and bug fixes.

Cons

Steep learning curve for users new to spatial databases and GIS concepts.
May require additional performance tuning and optimization for complex spatial queries.
Lacks graphical user interface for managing spatial data, potentially requiring expertise in SQL.

FAQ

What is PostGIS?

PostGIS is a spatial database extender for PostgreSQL that enables geographic objects to be stored and queried in a relational database.

How do I install PostGIS?

PostGIS can be installed by following the installation instructions provided in the official PostGIS documentation.

What are the key features of PostGIS?

Some key features of PostGIS include support for spatial data types, spatial indexing for efficient querying, and a wide range of spatial functions for analysis and manipulation of geographic data.

How can I create a spatial table in PostGIS?

A spatial table can be created in PostGIS using the CREATE TABLE command with appropriate spatial data type columns.

How do I import spatial data into PostGIS?

Spatial data can be imported into PostGIS using various methods, such as through the use of GIS software, using database import tools, or by executing SQL commands to insert data.

What is a spatial index?

A spatial index is a data structure that organizes spatial objects in a database for efficient retrieval based on their geometric properties. It helps to speed up spatial queries.

What are some common spatial queries that can be performed with PostGIS?

Some common spatial queries include finding nearby objects, calculating distances between geometries, finding intersections, and performing spatial joins between tables.

Can I perform advanced spatial analysis with PostGIS?

Yes, PostGIS provides a wide array of advanced spatial analysis functions, such as overlay operations, topological analysis, and clustering algorithms.

Is PostGIS compatible with other GIS software?

Yes, PostGIS is compatible with various GIS software and can be used alongside other popular tools like QGIS, ArcGIS, and GeoServer.

Is there a community support forum for PostGIS?

Yes, the PostGIS community provides a support forum where users can ask questions, share experiences, and seek assistance from fellow users and developers.

Boris Weber

I am an editor at UpdateStar. I started as a support engineer, and am now specialized in writing about general software topics from a usability and performance angle among others. I telecommute from UpdateStar’s Berlin office, when I am not working remote as a digital nomad for UpdateStar. When I'm not analyzing the latest software updates, you can find me exploring new cities, immersing myself in local cultures, and discovering innovative tech trends across the globe.

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