HeidiSQL is an open-source database client for querying data, editing tables, managing database structures, and importing or exporting records across several SQL database engines through a graphical interface.
HeidiSQL is an open-source database client for browsing records, running SQL, and editing database structures through a graphical interface. It connects to systems including MariaDB, MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, SQLite, InterBase, and Firebird, making it useful for developers and administrators working across different applications. Users can inspect a database tree, open a table, and examine its data without first writing a query for every lookup. SQL tabs remain available for more specific retrieval and maintenance tasks. The client works with existing databases and permissions, so its usefulness depends on the connection type and the capabilities exposed by the selected engine.
HeidiSQL needs access to a database server or a supported database file; installing the client does not install a separate database service. Server connections typically require a host, connection settings, and credentials, while SQLite works with a local database file. Developers can use GitKraken to version SQL scripts and migration files while this client executes queries against the intended database. The supplied package installs the Windows application, with separate builds available for Linux and macOS. SQL syntax and administrative features differ between engines, so a query written for one system may need changes before it works correctly on another database platform.
HeidiSQL reduces the effort of routine database work by bringing records, schema details, and query results into one accessible workspace without a software subscription. For application developers, that makes it easier to connect an unexpected result in the application with the stored values behind it. Administrators can inspect the objects relevant to a task before deciding which SQL statements or structural changes are appropriate. Working through a shared interface across supported engines also reduces the number of separate clients needed for everyday inspection, although engine-specific knowledge remains necessary. Exported results can support troubleshooting discussions and provide a selected dataset for colleagues to examine. Keeping reusable SQL in ordinary files lets a team review and version its database changes independently of the client. These practical benefits are strongest when users choose the correct connection, work within appropriate permissions, and check proposed updates before applying them to important data.
Key capabilities and highlights.
HeidiSQL keeps multiple connections available in one window, allowing users to move between supported database systems and saved sessions. This helps when checking development and test environments or maintaining several applications. Each connection still uses its own credentials and permissions, so the selected session determines which database receives an operation.
The query editor supports writing and executing SQL with syntax highlighting and completion assistance. Users can run a selected statement instead of executing an entire script and inspect returned rows in a results grid. This supports focused investigation when a visual table view cannot express the required filtering or joins.
HeidiSQL displays table records in a grid with filtering, sorting, and editing controls. Users can inspect individual values and make supported row changes without manually composing every statement. Reliable editing depends on identifying the intended record, so tables without suitable keys can make precise updates more difficult to manage.
The table editor exposes columns, data types, indexes, and other supported properties through dedicated controls. Developers can inspect existing definitions before changing a schema or adding a table. Available options depend on the database engine, and structural changes can affect application queries, constraints, storage, or compatibility with existing data.
HeidiSQL can export database structure and data as SQL, with options for selecting the objects to include. This supports moving a chosen dataset or retaining definitions for later inspection. An export should be checked against its intended destination because SQL dialects, permissions, and supported object types differ between database systems.
Result and table exports support formats including CSV and JSON, while text-file import provides a way to load external rows. These functions help exchange selected data with spreadsheets, scripts, and other tools. Check field separators, text encoding, column mapping, and null handling so transferred values retain their intended meaning.
SSH tunneling provides a connection route to supported database servers through an SSH host. Users configure tunnel credentials separately from database credentials, keeping the two authentication steps distinct. This is useful when the database is reachable from a remote host but is not directly accessible from the user’s computer.
The database tree organizes connections and database objects for browsing, and version 12.21 adds columns beneath tables. Users can inspect column names directly from the navigation structure before opening another editor. This reduces the steps needed to find a relevant field while exploring an unfamiliar schema or preparing a query.
Browse historical releases and previous builds.
Common questions about HeidiSQL.
Yes. The application is open-source software distributed under GPL-2.0 and can be used for commercial database work without a client subscription. Redistribution or modification can involve license obligations, and a database server you connect to may have its own separate licensing terms.
No. Install or obtain access to the database engine separately. For server databases, provide the connection details and an authorized account. SQLite uses a database file, so it does not require a separate server process.
Yes. Supported systems include MariaDB, MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, SQLite, InterBase, and Firebird. Support does not mean every administrative feature is identical across engines, and SQL scripts may require dialect-specific changes.
It can export supported database structures and data as SQL. For an operational backup strategy, also consider consistency during writes, server-specific objects, recovery requirements, and a tested restore procedure. A successful file export alone does not establish that every required part of a system can be recovered.
The supplied installer installs stable version 12.21.0.7344, released August 3, 2026. The official site also provides development builds and a version 13 preview; these are separate from the stable installer linked in this listing.
HeidiSQL is an open-source database client for querying data, editing tables, managing database structures, and importing or exporting records across several SQL database engines through a graphical interface.
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