DBDock

DBDock is a database toolkit for operators who need backups, restores, or migrations across multiple database systems. It is best suited to people comfortable with a command line and self-hosted software. Its broad database coverage and storage choices make it a capable free option, though setup requires Node.js and PostgreSQL client tools for PostgreSQL backups.

Overview

DBDock combines backup and restore commands for PostgreSQL, MySQL/MariaDB, SQL Server, and Redis with migration workflows between MongoDB and PostgreSQL. That breadth suits teams working across mixed database estates; users focused on only one engine may prefer a more specialized tool.

The CLI is MIT-licensed and self-hosted, while DBDock Cloud adds a managed dashboard with scheduled jobs, managed storage, teams, and alerts. Cloud Sync sends non-secret metadata while database passwords, storage keys, encryption secrets, and webhook URLs stay on the user's machine. This gives operators cloud coordination without moving those credentials off their systems.

Key features

Backups, restores, and migrations

The CLI handles backup and restore across four database families. PostgreSQL backups require PostgreSQL client tools, an additional dependency to account for when setting up a host. For cross-database projects, MongoDB-to-PostgreSQL and PostgreSQL-to-MongoDB migrations include schema mapping, dry runs, and incremental sync, which can help teams plan and continue a migration in stages.

Storage and automation

Backups can go to local disk, AWS S3, Cloudflare R2, Cloudinary, or managed DBDock Storage. The CLI supports cron-based automation and email and Slack notifications; the Cloud dashboard adds scheduled jobs and alerts. This range works for operators who want to choose their own storage destination, though the managed dashboard is a separate cloud component from the self-hosted CLI.

Security and programmatic access

DBDock lists AES-256-GCM encryption with PBKDF2 key derivation, credential masking, and .pgpass support. A TypeScript SDK also lets Node.js applications access DBDock programmatically. The CLI itself requires Node.js 18 or newer, so it is a poor fit for environments that cannot meet that runtime requirement.

Pricing

The Open-source CLI plan costs nothing and is MIT licensed and self-hosted. It is the clear fit for individuals and teams willing to run and maintain the CLI themselves. The free plan keeps the core toolkit accessible without a paid CLI tier, though the managed dashboard and its cloud functions are part of DBDock Cloud.

Platforms

DBDock supports API, Linux, macOS, self-hosted, web, and Windows environments. Its hybrid deployment spans a self-hosted CLI and a managed cloud dashboard, giving teams a choice between local operation and cloud coordination.

Who it's for

DBDock suits database operators who need one free toolkit for backup and restore across PostgreSQL, MySQL/MariaDB, SQL Server, and Redis, or who are moving data between MongoDB and PostgreSQL. It is particularly useful when storage flexibility and cron automation matter. Users seeking a GUI-only workflow, or teams unable to install Node.js 18 or PostgreSQL client tools where needed, should look elsewhere.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Backup and restore support spans four database families, with MongoDB–PostgreSQL migration in both directions.
• Pros: Storage destinations include local disk and several hosted options, with cron scheduling and email or Slack notifications in the CLI.
• Pros: The free, MIT-licensed CLI can be self-hosted, and Cloud Sync keeps listed credentials and secrets on the user's machine.
• Cons: The CLI requires Node.js 18 or newer, adding a runtime dependency.
• Cons: PostgreSQL backups also require PostgreSQL client tools, creating extra setup work on relevant hosts.
• Cons: The CLI's self-hosted model means operators manage its deployment themselves; the managed dashboard is offered through DBDock Cloud.

Alternatives

For broader SQL and NoSQL applications, connectors, and replication and high availability components, consider MySQL; its Community Edition is GPL-licensed. Quemsi is another free-plan option, with an agent it describes as open source and auditable, modifiable, or buildable from source.

For MongoDB backup and recovery in a Linux or self-hosted environment, Percona Backup for MongoDB is a focused alternative. SqlBak may suit users who want a hosted backup service with a defined free allowance: its free plan covers one server, two databases, one month of backup history, and server-down alerts every 60 minutes.

WAL-G is a free, open-source database archiving and restoration tool for Linux, macOS, Windows, and self-hosted use. For physical MariaDB backups on Linux or Windows, consider mariadb-backup. DBAegis offers a free Community plan with one admin, three connections, and three schedules. For PostgreSQL disaster recovery on Linux or self-hosted systems, Barman is another free option.

Browse Database Backup Software or Database Documentation Tools for more options.

Verdict

Choose DBDock if you want a free, self-hosted toolkit that combines multi-engine backup and restore with MongoDB–PostgreSQL migration and flexible storage destinations. Its breadth is the main reason to pick it; the Node.js runtime, PostgreSQL client-tool dependency, and self-managed CLI are the reasons to look elsewhere.