Databaseexit code > 0

psql: error: FATAL: password authentication failed

$psql: error: FATAL: password authentication failed for user "postgres"

Analysis

PostgreSQL rejected the connection because the password provided for the user is incorrect or missing.

Common Triggers

  • Wrong password in environment variables or .pgpass.
  • Incorrect pg_hba.conf configuration on the server.

Debug Checks

  • $Verify the password works via other clients.
  • $Check PostgreSQL logs on the server for more detail.

Resolution

1
Update the password in your connection string or environment.
2
Verify the user exists: \du in psql.

Metadata

Tool
Database
Severity
High
Tags
#database#postgres#auth