PG Next DocsA branch derives a timeline from a parent using copy-on-write. Use branches to test changes within a project. Copied data can still be sensitive: branching does not anonymize or mask it.
Create a branch
- Open a project and select Branches.
- Create a branch, give it a name and select its parent.
- Verify that the new branch belongs to the intended project and has the correct parent.
- To run SQL on it, select or create an appropriate compute and connect.
Independent computes on several branches are a new source contract dated 22 October 2026, not a production acceptance result from this documentation task. A successful branch creation does not establish that a compute has been provisioned.
Compare schemas
Open Schema diff, select two branches and a database. Check the source and target direction before interpreting differences. Schema comparison shows structure; it does not automatically run migrations or merge data.
Protect or delete a branch
Enable deletion protection to help prevent accidental removal. The main branch and protected branches cannot be deleted. New source also rejects deletion of a branch that still has a compute; handle the compute first.
Read the resource name and consequences in the confirmation dialog. After an error or timeout, refresh the list and state before retrying. Do not delete a branch serving an application without preparing its connection change.