HeidiSQL is a free, open-source database GUI for Windows originally built for MySQL and MariaDB, with later support added for PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server and SQLite. It gives developers and database administrators a visual way to browse tables, run and save SQL queries, edit data in a spreadsheet-like grid, and manage users and permissions. It has stayed popular among MySQL and MariaDB users as a lightweight, fast alternative to heavier database tools.
Why HeidiSQL Is a Favorite for MySQL and MariaDB Work
Heavier database IDEs can feel slow and overloaded with features most developers rarely use, while HeidiSQL stays fast and focused on the day-to-day tasks of writing queries, browsing tables and editing data. Its data grid editing lets you change table rows directly, similar to editing a spreadsheet, without writing manual UPDATE statements.
HeidiSQL Features
- Multi-Database Support — connect to MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, MS SQL Server and SQLite.
- SQL Query Editor — syntax-highlighted editor with query history and autocompletion.
- Spreadsheet-Style Data Grid — browse and edit table rows directly without writing SQL.
- Table & Database Management — create, alter and drop tables, views, triggers and stored procedures.
- Data Import/Export — import CSV files and export data or full databases as SQL dumps.
- User & Privilege Management — manage database users and permissions from the GUI.
- Session Manager — save and organize multiple server connections for quick access.
How to Install HeidiSQL on Windows
- Open the official download page using the button on this page, which goes to heidisql.com.
- Download the installer or portable ZIP version.
- Run the installer and follow the setup prompts.
- Launch HeidiSQL and create a new session with your database server details.
- Connect to your database to start browsing tables and running queries.
Is HeidiSQL really free?
Open Source. HeidiSQL is completely free and open-source, released under the GNU General Public License, with no paid tier.
How to download HeidiSQL safely
Use the request button on this page and we will email you the current link for www.heidisql.com — the publisher's own website — so you receive the authentic build. We do not host, mirror, patch or repackage this software in any way.
Avoid third-party "download manager" sites offering HeidiSQL. They commonly wrap the genuine installer in their own bundler, which is how adware and browser hijackers get onto a machine that the user believed was clean.
Alternatives to HeidiSQL
Other free developer tools software worth comparing before you decide:
DB Browser for SQLite
Free, open-source visual editor for SQLite database files.
MobaXterm
Terminal and SSH client with additional network tools for Windows.
Frequently asked questions
Is HeidiSQL really free?
Yes, HeidiSQL is free and open-source under the GPL, with no paid version.
Which databases does HeidiSQL support?
HeidiSQL supports MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server and SQLite.
Is HeidiSQL available for Mac or Linux?
HeidiSQL is Windows-native, though it can run on Linux or Mac via compatibility layers like Wine, which is not officially supported.
Can HeidiSQL edit table data directly?
Yes, its data grid lets you edit rows directly, similar to a spreadsheet.
Can HeidiSQL export a full database as SQL?
Yes, it can export databases or individual tables as SQL dump files for backup or migration.
Tell us what went wrong — a person reads every message and replies. Corrections to this page are treated as priority fixes.
People also search for
The terms visitors use to find this page. Each one lands here because it describes the same program.
Searches from India
HeidiSQL is identical worldwide — these are search phrasings, not different downloads. Every one of them gets the same official build from www.heidisql.com.
