Neon PostgreSQL Security
Neon provides serverless PostgreSQL with branching. Learn how to secure your database while leveraging these features.
Why Neon + PostgreSQL?
Neon's serverless architecture and database branching are popular for modern applications. Understanding its security model is essential.
Common Vulnerabilities
These are the security issues we find most often in Neon apps using PostgreSQL.
Branch Isolation Assumptions
Branches in the same project share access controls, which may not be expected.
Connection String Exposure
Connection strings with credentials may be hardcoded in application code.
Missing Role-Based Access
Application may connect with full owner permissions instead of limited roles.
Pooler Security Misunderstanding
Connection pooler may be used without understanding its security implications.
What We Check for Neon + PostgreSQL
Credential Management
Verify connection strings are in environment variables, not code.
Database Role Permissions
Check that application uses limited database roles.
Branch Configuration
Review branch access and production isolation.
Connection Security
Verify SSL is required and pooler is properly configured.
Quick Security Wins
Apply these fixes right now to improve your security.
Store connection strings in environment variables onlyCreate limited roles: CREATE ROLE app_user WITH LOGINUse separate Neon projects for strict production isolationEnable sslmode=require in all connection stringsUse IP restrictions if available for your planThe Bottom Line
Neon is secure when you understand branching (not tenant isolation), use limited database roles, and keep connection strings in environment variables.
Secure Your Neon + PostgreSQL App
Find Row Level Security misconfigurations, exposed credentials, and other vulnerabilities before attackers do.
Start Security ScanFrequently Asked Questions
Are Neon branches isolated from each other?
Branches share the same project and access controls - they're for development workflow, not tenant isolation. If you need strict isolation between customers or environments, use separate Neon projects, not branches within one project.
How do I secure my Neon connection string?
Store it only in environment variables - never commit to code. Use SSL (sslmode=require is in the connection string by default). Create a limited database role instead of using the project owner for application access.
Should I use the pooler or direct connection for Neon?
Use the pooler (-pooler in hostname) for serverless and edge environments where connections are short-lived. Use direct connections for long-running applications. Both are secure when using SSL, but the pooler handles connection management better for serverless.
Does Neon support Row Level Security?
Yes, Neon uses standard PostgreSQL with full RLS support. Enable it on tables and create policies. This is especially important for multi-tenant SaaS applications where user data must be isolated at the database level.