TL;DR
PlanetScale is a secure serverless MySQL platform with excellent security defaults. It uses connection strings with embedded credentials, TLS encryption, and offers database branching for safe schema changes. Built on Vitess (powers YouTube), it's designed for scale and reliability. A safe choice for MySQL workloads.
What is PlanetScale?
PlanetScale is a serverless MySQL platform built on Vitess, the same technology that powers YouTube's databases. It offers database branching (like Git for databases), non-blocking schema changes, and automatic scaling. Popular with modern web applications and startups.
Our Verdict
What's Good
- TLS encryption required
- Safe schema migrations
- Database branching
- SOC 2 Type II certified
- No foreign keys = no cascade risks
What to Watch
- Connection string exposure
- Branch password management
- No foreign key enforcement
Security Features
Secure by Default: PlanetScale requires TLS for all connections and uses unique passwords per branch, limiting blast radius if credentials leak.
Connection Security
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| TLS Encryption | Required (cannot disable) |
| Password Authentication | Required |
| IP Restrictions | Available (Enterprise) |
| Branch Passwords | Unique per branch |
Database Branching
PlanetScale's branching model adds security benefits:
- Isolated environments: Each branch has its own credentials
- Safe testing: Test schema changes without affecting production
- Review process: Deploy requests require approval
- Rollback ready: Easy to revert schema changes
Best Practice: Use separate branches for development, staging, and production. Never share production credentials with development.
Schema Change Safety
PlanetScale's non-blocking schema changes prevent common migration disasters:
- No table locks during migrations
- Schema changes can be previewed before deployment
- Deploy requests create an audit trail
- Easy rollback if issues arise
Credential Management
| Credential Type | Use Case | Rotation |
|---|---|---|
| Branch Password | Application connection | Regenerate anytime |
| Service Token | CI/CD, CLI access | Create new, revoke old |
| OAuth | Dashboard access | SSO integration |
Is PlanetScale safe for production?
Yes, PlanetScale is designed for production use. It's SOC 2 certified, uses Vitess (battle-tested at YouTube scale), and has secure defaults including required TLS.
Why doesn't PlanetScale support foreign keys?
Foreign keys can cause scaling issues and cascading deletes that affect performance. PlanetScale recommends handling referential integrity at the application level, which also prevents accidental cascade deletions.
How do I rotate credentials?
Generate a new password for your branch in the dashboard, update your application, then delete the old password. PlanetScale allows multiple passwords per branch for zero-downtime rotation.
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