Microsoft’s Open-Source Leap: A Document Database Built on PostgreSQL
In a move that underscores its growing commitment to open-source technologies, Microsoft has unveiled a new document database platform based on PostgreSQL, one of the most trusted open-source relational databases. This initiative signals a shift in Microsoft’s strategy, embracing the power and flexibility of open-source solutions to provide developers with enhanced database capabilities.
Why This Matters
For years, Microsoft has been known for its proprietary database solutions, including SQL Server and Azure Cosmos DB. However, the company has increasingly adopted open-source approaches, integrating them into its ecosystem. The decision to build a fully open-source document database on PostgreSQL reflects a recognition of the advantages open-source communities bring, including flexibility, cost efficiency, and extensive developer support.
The new database is designed to support document-based workloads while maintaining PostgreSQL’s reliability, scalability, and ecosystem compatibility. This makes it an attractive option for businesses and developers seeking an alternative to proprietary document databases.
How It Works: PostgreSQL Extensions Powering the System
Rather than building a completely new system from scratch, Microsoft has taken a modular approach by introducing two PostgreSQL extensions that enable document database functionality:
Together, these extensions transform PostgreSQL into a powerful document database, capable of handling JSON-based and semi-structured data with high performance and flexibility.
Bringing FerretDB into the Picture
To further enhance its functionality, Microsoft recommends using FerretDB 2.0, an open-source document database interface that enables MongoDB-compatible operations on PostgreSQL.
By integrating with FerretDB, Microsoft is making it easier for organizations that rely on MongoDB-like document storage to migrate to an open-source and cost-effective solution without major application changes.
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The Bigger Picture: Microsoft’s Open-Source Evolution
This move is not an isolated event—it fits into a broader trend of Microsoft embracing open-source development. Over the years, the company has made several strategic moves in this direction:
Acquisition of GitHub – Supporting and investing in the open-source developer ecosystem. Azure’s Linux & PostgreSQL Support – Expanding cloud services to accommodate open-source operating systems and databases.
Open-Sourcing Key Technologies – Including .NET Core, Visual Studio Code, and now, a PostgreSQL-based document database.
Microsoft’s document database project aligns with this philosophy, providing greater transparency, flexibility, and community-driven innovation.
What This Means for Developers & Businesses
If you’re a developer or IT decision-maker, here’s why this announcement is exciting:
More Open-Source Options: You no longer need to rely on proprietary document databases—PostgreSQL now offers a strong alternative.
Better Integration: PostgreSQL’s ecosystem is vast, making integration with existing tools and applications much easier.
Cost-Effective: No vendor lock-in, lower costs, and the freedom to customize your database as needed.
Performance Boosts: With Microsoft’s optimizations and FerretDB 2.0, document-based workloads on PostgreSQL are now significantly faster.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft’s decision to develop an open-source document database on PostgreSQL marks an important shift in its cloud and database strategy. This move empowers developers with more choices, greater flexibility, and cost-effective alternatives while strengthening PostgreSQL’s position as a multi-purpose database.
With its growing investments in open-source technology, Microsoft is proving that it is not just a software giant—it’s an active participant in the open-source revolution.
What are your thoughts on Microsoft’s latest open-source move? Would you consider PostgreSQL for your document database needs? Let’s discuss in the comments!