Microsoft Adds PostgreSQL Management Directly in Visual Studio Code

Microsoft introduced a new PostgreSQL extension for Visual Studio Code that allows developers to manage PostgreSQL databases directly from the editor, without the need for separate tools or additional windows.

The extension supports both local PostgreSQL instances and cloud-based environments, including Azure Database for PostgreSQL. In addition to standard database management, the tool also integrates AI capabilities through GitHub Copilot.

AI assistance via GitHub Copilot

The extension includes a dedicated @pgsql GitHub Copilot agent that assists with PostgreSQL tasks directly within VS Code.

Users can use AI for:

• rewriting SQL queries
• explaining SQL code
• analyzing query performance
• debugging and schema optimization

Copilot Chat Agent Mode also supports multi-step operations, requiring user confirmation before applying changes to the database.

Database schema visualization

A new Schema Visualization feature enables a visual representation of the database structure. Through Object Explorer, users can more easily browse tables, relationships, and database objects, which is particularly useful when working with larger PostgreSQL environments.

Improved connection management

The extension supports the creation of multiple connection profiles, parsing of connection strings, and direct management of Azure Database for PostgreSQL environments.

For Azure users, support has been added for:

• Entra ID authentication
• passwordless login
• automatic refresh of authentication tokens

Better SQL tools in VS Code

Microsoft adds context-aware IntelliSense, which suggests:

• table names
• columns
• SQL keywords
• in real time while writing SQL code.
  
  

The extension also includes:

• syntax highlighting
• auto-formatting
• query history panel
• export of results in CSV, JSON, and Excel format

Docker support for local environments

For developers who need a local PostgreSQL environment, the extension can automatically start PostgreSQL Docker containers directly from VS Code with minimal configuration.

Additional features

Microsoft also adds additional capabilities such as:

• Server Dashboard for monitoring PostgreSQL performance metrics
• Object Explorer for managing database objects
• AI-assisted schema migration from Oracle to Azure Database for PostgreSQL

The extension is available via the VS Code Marketplace or directly through the Extensions section in Visual Studio Code by searching for “PostgreSQL”.