Loading databases

QGIS supports PostGIS, SpatiaLite, Microsoft SQL Server, and Oracle databases. Regardless of the type of database you wish to load, the loading sequence is very similar. Therefore, instead of covering specific examples, the general sequence will be covered.

To create a new database connection using the Data Source Manager, perform the following:

1. Click on the Open Data Source Manager icon or press Ctrl + L
2. On the left, choose the database you want to connect to, and, in the connection window, click on the New button
3. Add all the connection details required

To add a layer once a connection has been established, perform the following:

1. Click on the Open Data Source Manager icon
2. Click on Connect

When connected successfully, you will be presented with a list of layers that can be added to the Map Canvas. An alternative and perhaps better method for loading data on the Map Canvas is to use the Browser panel once you have created the new database connection. Using the Browser panel gives the user a cleaner overview of the layers and tables that can be added to the Map Canvas.