Skip to main content
By default, BillBasket keeps each store’s data in an encrypted file on the computer itself — no setup, works offline. For a high-traffic store that wants its data on a dedicated database server, BillBasket can instead connect to your own PostgreSQL server.
This is an advanced, optional feature for stores that specifically need a database server. Most shops should stay on the default local storage — it’s simpler, needs no server, and works fully offline. Only use this if you know you need PostgreSQL.
External database is set up on the Windows desktop (the host). Paired phones don’t connect to PostgreSQL directly — they keep talking to the desktop over your local network as usual. See Companion & Web Access.

​
Understanding the fields

At Settings → Data → External database:
  • Host — the address of your PostgreSQL server (default localhost if it’s the same machine).
  • Port — the server’s port (PostgreSQL’s default is 5432).
  • Database — the name of the database to use on that server.
  • Username and Password — the credentials BillBasket connects with.
  • Test connection — checks that the details above actually reach a working server. This must succeed before the Switch button turns on — BillBasket won’t let you switch to a server it can’t reach, so you can’t strand your store on a bad connection.
  • Switch — moves this store onto the PostgreSQL server. Important: switching opens a fresh, empty database on the server — your existing local data stays safe in the local file but is not copied over automatically. The confirmation dialog spells this out before you commit.
  • Revert to local — switches the store back to the local encrypted file at any time, reopening your original local data.

​
See it on your device

The External database screen with a store already on the local encrypted database — Host, Port, Database name, Username, Password, and the Use TLS toggle for the PostgreSQL connection, plus Test connection, Copy data & switch, and Switch to an empty database actions.

​
Try it: Bali Electronics

1

Open External database on the desktop

Bali Electronics has grown to several busy counters, so Vikram Bali opens Settings → Data → External database on the shop’s Windows PC to move the store onto the PostgreSQL server his IT person set up.
2

Enter the server details and test first

He fills in the host, port, database, username, and password, then taps Test connection — only once it passes does the Switch button become available.
3

Read the confirmation, then switch

The confirm dialog reminds Vikram that the server database starts empty and his local data isn’t copied yet. Understanding that, he confirms the switch.
4

Revert if needed

If anything about the server setup isn’t right, Vikram uses Revert to local to bring the store straight back to its original local file.