SQLite for embedded, offline and on-device data
SQLite is a self-contained SQL database that runs inside the application and stores everything in one file. It is ideal for mobile apps, desktop software, devices and offline-first features.
SQLite needs no server, is extremely reliable and is fast for local reads. It is used on phones, in browsers and in countless embedded systems, and it is also handy for quick, isolated test databases. Its limits appear with many concurrent writers and multi-server deployments, where a client-server database is the right choice. We use it for on-device storage and sync, and keep SQL portable so code tested on SQLite behaves the same on MySQL or PostgreSQL.
What we build with SQLite
- On-device storage in mobile apps
- Offline-first sync designs
- Desktop and embedded data stores
- Fast isolated test databases
- Small internal tools
SQLite questions
Can SQLite be used for a production website?
For low-traffic, single-server sites it can work well. For multiple servers or heavy concurrent writes we recommend PostgreSQL or MySQL instead.
How do you sync SQLite data on a phone with a server?
We track local changes, send them to an API when a connection is available and resolve conflicts with clear rules, so the app works offline without losing data.
How do you handle concurrent access in SQLite?
We enable write-ahead logging (WAL) mode, which lets readers continue while a write is in progress, and keep write transactions short. SQLite still allows only one writer at a time, which shapes how it should be used.
How do you back up a SQLite database?
We use SQLite's online backup API or the VACUUM INTO command to take a consistent copy while the database is in use. Copying the file directly during writes can produce a corrupt backup.
How do you change a SQLite schema in a shipped mobile app?
We version the schema and run migrations when the app starts after an update, testing upgrades from every earlier version still in use. Users' local data must survive each release.
Is data in SQLite encrypted?
Standard SQLite does not encrypt its file, so we rely on device-level encryption or use an encryption extension such as SQLCipher for sensitive data. Secrets such as tokens go in the platform's secure storage instead.
Does SQLite enforce column types and foreign keys?
SQLite uses flexible typing by default and foreign keys must be switched on per connection. We enable foreign keys and can use strict tables so type errors are caught.
Why use SQLite for automated tests?
An in-memory SQLite database starts almost instantly and is isolated per test run, which keeps suites fast. We still run tests against the production database engine where SQL behaviour differs.
Can SQLite handle full-text search?
Yes. The FTS5 extension adds full-text indexes with ranking, which works well for searching notes, messages or documents on a device without a network connection.
What licence does SQLite use?
SQLite is in the public domain, so it can be embedded in any product, commercial or otherwise, without licence fees or attribution requirements.
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