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SQuirrel SQL is an open‑source SQL client designed to let developers, database administrators and IT specialists explore, query and manage multiple databases easily from a unified graphical interface. It targets users who need a cross‑platform solution compatible with the most common databases such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, MariaDB or SQLite.
In this review we will analyse in detail its main features, its advantages and limitations, the problems it solves, and provide a comparison with popular alternatives.
What problems does SQuirrel SQL solve?
Many database management tools are proprietary, expensive or limited to a single SQL engine. IT professionals often look for a more flexible, free and multi‑DBMS‑compatible solution.
SQuirrel SQL meets this need by offering a single interface that allows you to:
centralise the management of several databases without juggling between different clients;
run SQL queries on various servers without changing environments;
visualise table structures, indexes, views and relationships graphically;
generate reports and analyse performance via complementary plugins.
Because it is open source, SQuirrel SQL is a serious alternative to commercial tools such as DBeaver Enterprise or Toad for Oracle, while remaining lightweight and extensible.
Key features and capabilities
SQuirrel SQL stands out for its functional richness and broad compatibility with most relational databases.
Interface
Clear, modular graphical interface
- Support for dark mode and custom themes
- Object explorer to view schemas, tables, views and foreign keys
SQL editor with syntax highlighting and fast query execution
Performance
Smooth handling of multiple simultaneous connections
- Memory optimisation for working with large databases
- Query results displayed as filterable tables
Customisation
Very complete plugin system (CSV export, ERD diagrams, monitoring, etc.)
Ability to configure JDBC drivers for specific needs
Configurable shortcuts, themes and SQL macros
Security
Support for SSL encryption on connections
- Secure storage of credentials via an integrated connection manager
- Compatible with advanced authentication mechanisms depending on the DBMS used
How to install and configure?
Installation of SQuirrel SQL is simple and fast on any operating system.
Download the latest version from the official site squirrelsql.org.
Install the Java package if needed (Java 11 or newer recommended).
Run the installer and follow the on‑screen steps.
Launch SQuirrel SQL and configure your first JDBC connection.
Add the drivers corresponding to your databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, etc.).
Customise the interface and install the desired plugins.
Once configured, the tool is ready to use immediately and can connect to any JDBC‑compatible database.
Use cases for SQuirrel SQL
SQuirrel SQL is employed in many professional contexts:
- Application development : test SQL queries before integration
- Database administration : monitoring, inspection and schema optimisation
Audit and technical support : performance analysis and index verification
- Training and teaching : hands‑on learning of SQL in a visual environment
Concrete example
An internal development team of a SaaS company uses SQuirrel SQL to query and maintain several PostgreSQL and Oracle databases. With this tool they reduced manual analysis time by 40 % and improved the reliability of data migrations.
Comparison with alternatives
| Fonctionnalité | SQuirrel SQL | DBeaver | HeidiSQL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open source | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Cross‑platform (Windows/Linux/Mac) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌No (Windows only) |
| Universal JDBC support | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Plugins and extensions | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited |
| Advanced graphical UI | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Medium |
| ERD diagram tool | ✅ Plugin available | ✅ Integrated | ❌ No |
| Multiple‑connection management | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Commercial licence option | ❌ No | ✅ Optional | ❌ No |
Advantages and disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| ✅ Completely free and open source | ❌ UI less modern than some competitors |
| ✅ Compatible with most DBMS via JDBC | ❌ Some advanced functions require third‑party plugins |
| ✅ Highly customisable thanks to plugins | ❌ Slightly lower performance on very large databases |
| ✅ Clear and stable interface | ❌ Few native cloud integrations (AWS RDS, Azure SQL) |
| ✅ Active open‑source community and full documentation | ❌ Initial learning curve for configuration |
Tableau récapitulatif des points clés
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Licence | Open Source (GPL) |
| Primary language | Java |
| Compatibility | Universal JDBC |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Available plugins | Yes, extensible |
| SSL encryption support | Yes |
| Documentation | Excellent, available on the official site |
| Community | Active and international |
Conclusion
SQuirrel SQL remains a reliable choice for developers and administrators seeking a complete open‑source tool to manage multiple databases from a single interface. Its wide compatibility, extensibility through plugins and stability make it an ideal solution for IT professionals who want to combine simplicity, power and effective technical support thanks to an active, responsive community.
Although the UI looks a bit dated, its robust features and vibrant open‑source community guarantee a dependable and efficient experience. For any organisation working with several SQL engines, SQuirrel SQL is a relevant, free and high‑performance option to adopt.
