How to create custom database functions in Supabase?

Discover the magic of crafting custom database functions with Supabase using our simple guide. Effortlessly boost your database's capabilities with personalized functions.

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Overview

Building custom database functions in Supabase lets developers push the boundaries of their database by crafting unique procedures using SQL. These functions can wrap complex logic, streamline repetitive jobs, and boost database efficiency. Knowing how to utilize Supabase’s PostgreSQL function support can lead to more dynamic and efficient apps, delivering seamless server-side operations and cutting down on the need for too much client-side code. This guide walks through the steps to write, deploy, and handle custom database functions within a Supabase project.

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How to create custom database functions in Supabase?

Step 1: Set Up Your Supabase Project

Sign in to the Supabase Dashboard.
Create a new project or pick one you already have.
Jot down the project URL and the API key. You'll need these to connect to the database.

Step 2: Access the SQL Editor

Head over to your project dashboard.
Click on the 'SQL Editor' tab in the sidebar.
This is your playground for writing and running SQL queries, including custom functions.

Step 3: Write Your Custom Function

In the SQL Editor, type out a SQL function. For instance, to create a simple function that returns a greeting message:
```sql
CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION public.greet_user(user_name TEXT)
RETURNS TEXT LANGUAGE plpgsql AS $$
BEGIN
RETURN 'Hello, ' || user_name || '!';
END;
$$;
```
Use CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION to avoid any clashes with existing functions.

Step 4: Execute the SQL Query

Hit the 'RUN' button in the SQL Editor to execute your query.
Check the output panel to confirm that the function was created successfully.

Step 5: Test Your New Function

To test your new function, use a SELECT statement in the SQL Editor:
```sql
SELECT public.greet_user('Supabase');
```
Click 'RUN' to execute the query and see if it returns the expected result.

Step 6: Integrate the Function in Your Application

Use Supabase client libraries in your favorite programming language to connect to your database.
Call the custom function from your app. For example, using JavaScript with the Supabase JS library:
```javascript
import { createClient } from '@supabase/supabase-js';

const supabaseUrl = 'https://xyzcompany.supabase.co';
const supabaseKey = 'public-anon-key';
const supabase = createClient(supabaseUrl, supabaseKey);

async function greetUser(userName) {
const { data, error } = await supabase.rpc('greet_user', { user_name: userName });
if (error) {
console.error(error);
} else {
console.log(data);
}
}

greetUser('Supabase');
```

Step 7: Manage and Update Functions

Go back to the SQL Editor anytime to update your existing functions or create new ones.
Use CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION to make sure updates are applied without errors related to function existence.

Step 8: Secure Your Functions

Limit permissions by defining who can run the custom functions.
Use Supabase’s authentication and authorization features to secure function access.
For example, revoke default public access and grant execute rights to specific roles:
```sql
REVOKE EXECUTE ON FUNCTION public.greet_user(TEXT) FROM PUBLIC;
GRANT EXECUTE ON FUNCTION public.greet_user(TEXT) TO authenticated;
```

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