> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.kira.thiennguyen.dev/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.kira.thiennguyen.dev/user-guide/databases.md).

# Databases

Kira is also a database client. It works with **RDS**, **DynamoDB**, and your own **PostgreSQL / MySQL / Redshift** servers — all from the same SQL editor and result views.

## RDS

Browse the **RDS instances** in the active account and open a SQL editor against one. Kira can pull connection details and resolve the database credentials you've configured (often from [Secrets Manager](/user-guide/secrets.md)) so you can connect quickly.

### Connecting through a tunnel

RDS instances usually live in private subnets. Kira can open a **secure SSH tunnel** so the SQL editor reaches a private database through a bastion / jump host, then routes your queries over it.

```mermaid
flowchart LR
    Editor[Kira SQL editor] --> Tunnel[SSH tunnel<br/>local port forward]
    Tunnel --> Bastion[Bastion / jump host]
    Bastion --> RDS[(Private RDS<br/>instance)]
```

Tunnels are managed for you: Kira starts a tunnel when you connect and can list and stop active tunnels. When you're done, the tunnel is torn down.

## DynamoDB

List **DynamoDB tables**, inspect their key schema, and run **queries** (by key) or **scans** (with filters). Drill into individual items to see their attributes, and create, update, or delete items as needed. A deep link like `kira://databases/dynamo?...&table=<name>` opens a specific table directly.

## Your own SQL servers

Beyond AWS-discovered databases, you can register arbitrary **PostgreSQL**, **MySQL**, or **Redshift** servers — for example a local Docker database or a self-managed instance. Define them under `servers` in your [configuration](/getting-started/configuration.md#servers-your-own-sql-servers), then connect to them with the same SQL editor.

## The SQL editor

The SQL editor has syntax highlighting and runs your statements against the connected database. It splits multi-statement scripts, paginates large result sets, and lets you **export** results. If you've enabled [Smart Query](/user-guide/smart-query.md), you can also generate SQL and table filters from a natural-language prompt.

## Credentials

Database passwords you save are stored in the **macOS Keychain**, not in your config file. Kira fetches them on demand when you connect, and you can update or remove a stored credential at any time. See [Configuration → Credential storage](/getting-started/configuration.md#credential-storage-keychain).


---

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