PostgreSQL 7.4 Documentation
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# Chapter 16. Server Run-time Environment

This chapter discusses how to set up and run the database server and the interactions with the operating system.

# 16.1. The PostgreSQL User Account

As with any other server daemon that is connected to outside world, it is advisable to run PostgreSQL under a separate user account. This user account should only own the data that is managed by the server, and should not be shared with other daemons. (For example, using the user nobody is a bad idea.) It is not advisable to install executables owned by this user because compromised systems could then modify their own binaries.

To add a Unix user account to your system, look for a command `useradd` or `adduser`. The user name postgres is often used but is by no means required.

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