Starting from version 17, PostgreSQL introduced native support for incremental backups, enabling more efficient and storage-friendly backup strategies. One of the key requirements for incremental backups is enabling WAL (Write-Ahead Log) file summarization.
This article explains how to enable WAL summarization by updating PostgreSQL configuration settings.
1. Backup the Configuration File
Before making any changes, create a backup of the original configuration file.
Default location on Windows:
2. Edit postgresql.conf
Open the configuration file in any text editor (e.g., Notepad, Notepad++, or VS Code), and ensure the following setting is present:
3. Restart the PostgreSQL Server
To apply the changes:
-
Press Win + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter -
Locate PostgreSQL 17 in the list of services
-
Right-click the service and select Restart
🔄 A full restart is required for the new setting to take effect.