Bemi

Bemi provides an automatic audit trail solution for PostgreSQL databases that tracks every data change with full accuracy and context. It connects quickly to your existing PostgreSQL setup without needing write permissions, capturing changes directly from the database's write-ahead log. This ensures a reliable and complete record of all modifications, even those made outside the application layer. Beyond just logging changes, Bemi enriches each record with application-level context such as the user responsible, the API endpoint or worker involved, and the process behind the change. This contextual data is added through lightweight integrations with popular ORMs like Prisma, TypeORM, SQLAlchemy, Ruby on Rails, and others, making it easy to understand the why and how behind every update. All audit data is securely stored in a serverless, auto-scaled PostgreSQL database managed by Bemi, allowing you to run time travel queries and integrate historical data directly into your applications. The system uses military-grade encryption for data at rest and TLS for data in transit, ensuring strong security and customer-level isolation. Bemi is designed to be simple to set up, requiring only a few minutes and minimal code changes. It supports selective tracking of tables and columns, advanced permission controls, and integrates with hosting partners to handle data volumes exceeding one billion changes. Its architecture avoids complex event sourcing or git-like abstractions, focusing instead on practical, reliable change data capture. Use cases include audit and compliance reporting, troubleshooting and observability, data recovery, and building customer activity feeds. Bemi's pricing is usage-based with plans suited for startups to enterprises, including features like dedicated Slack support, connection pooling, IP allow lists, and optional HIPAA and SOC 2 compliance add-ons. The tool is trusted by engineering teams who appreciate its ability to save time on building internal audit tooling, improve debugging, and provide confidence in data integrity. Bemi also offers extensive documentation, open-source ORM libraries, and a blog with engineering insights and case studies. Overall, Bemi stands out as a practical, secure, and context-rich audit trail solution that fits naturally into existing PostgreSQL environments without heavy engineering overhead.

Key Features

• 🔗 Quick setup connects to PostgreSQL in minutes without write permissions

• 📝 Adds user and process context to every data change for clear tracking

• 🔒 Military-grade encryption secures data at rest and in transit

• ⏳ Enables time travel queries to view historical data states easily

• 📊 Supports selective table and column tracking to reduce noise

Pros

• Captures every data change with 100% accuracy using PostgreSQL's write-ahead log

• Enriches audit logs with detailed application context for better traceability

• Secure storage with military-grade encryption and TLS for data in transit

• Supports time travel queries to access historical data states easily

• Flexible plans with options for startups to large enterprises including compliance add-ons

Cons

• Requires integration with application code to add context, which may need developer effort

• Enterprise pricing and features require contacting sales, which may delay onboarding

FAQ

How does Bemi connect to my PostgreSQL database without write permissions?

Bemi connects securely to your PostgreSQL database's write-ahead log to capture all data changes without needing to modify your database or have write access.

Where is all the audit data stored when using Bemi?

All audit data is stored in a serverless, auto-scaled PostgreSQL database managed by Bemi, ensuring your data remains accessible and secure.

Do I need to install any ORM packages to use Bemi?

Bemi provides open-source libraries for popular ORMs, but you only need to add a few lines of code to enrich audit data with application context.

Can Bemi help with compliance requirements like HIPAA or SOC 2?

Yes, Bemi offers HIPAA and SOC 2 compliance as add-ons to help meet regulatory standards for data security and privacy.

What happens if I exceed my monthly data change limit?

You can upgrade your plan to accommodate higher data volumes or contact Bemi support to discuss custom enterprise options.

Can I selectively track specific tables or columns with Bemi?

Yes, Bemi supports selective tracking of tables and columns to focus on the data changes that matter most to your application.