How to Install postgresql-client 17 on Docker Alpine Using apk

Learn how to properly install PostgreSQL client version 17 on an Alpine-based Docker image using apk repositories and handle common installation errors.
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Introduction

When working with Docker images based on Alpine Linux, installing specific versions of packages like postgresql-client can be challenging due to package naming conventions and repository support. This guide addresses how to install postgresql-client version 17 on the mcr.microsoft.com/azure-cli:2.9.1 image, which is Alpine-based.

The Problem

Running the following commands in your Dockerfile:

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results in an error:

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This happens because the postgresql-client17 package is not available in the default Alpine repositories configured in the image.

Why the Error Occurs

The Alpine version in the base image may not have the desired PostgreSQL client version in its stable repository.

Package naming for PostgreSQL clients on Alpine often follows postgresql17-client rather than postgresql-client17.

Required packages may reside in the Alpine edge (testing) repository, not enabled by default.

The Solution

Step 1: Use the Edge Main Repository

Add the Alpine edge main repository to your APK repositories to access newer or testing packages such as postgresql17-client.

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Step 2: Update and Upgrade

Run update and upgrade with the --allow-untrusted flag because edge packages may not have verified signatures.

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Step 3: Install the Correct Package

Install the PostgreSQL 17 client using the correct package name postgresql17-client:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Complete Dockerfile Example

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Summary

Use postgresql17-client instead of postgresql-client17.

Enable Alpine's edge main repository to access the latest package versions.

Use --allow-untrusted when working with edge/testing packages.

With these changes, the PostgreSQL 17 client should install successfully in the Alpine-based Docker image.