Docs/Core Concepts/Direct Connections
CORE CONCEPTS4 min read

Direct Connections

Connecting cloud databases and APIs without an on-premise agent

Overview

Direct connections allow Conexor to connect to databases and APIs that are accessible from the internet, without requiring an on-premise agent. This is ideal for cloud-hosted databases like Azure SQL, AWS RDS, or Supabase.

INFODirect connections work best for cloud databases. For on-premise databases behind a firewall, use the agent mode.

Connection Modes Comparison

FeatureAgent ModeDirect Mode
Firewall traversalYes (outbound only)No (needs public access)
Credentials storedOn-premise (encrypted)In cloud (encrypted)
Setup complexityMedium (install agent)Low (just connection string)
LatencyLower (local network)Higher (internet)

Supported Data Sources

  • PostgreSQL - Any PostgreSQL 12+ with public access
  • SQL Server - Azure SQL Database, AWS RDS for SQL Server
  • REST APIs - Any public API with OpenAPI spec

Creating a Direct Connection

  1. Go to Dashboard → Data Sources
  2. Click "Add Data Source"
  3. Select "Direct" as connection mode
  4. Choose data source type (PostgreSQL, SQL Server, REST API)
  5. Enter connection details
  6. Test the connection
  7. Save - schema will be discovered automatically

Security Considerations

  • Credentials are encrypted with AES-256 before storage
  • Use IP allowlisting on your cloud database when possible
  • Use read-only database users with minimal permissions
  • Enable SSL/TLS on your database connection
  • Consider using VPC peering for AWS/Azure databases
NOTENever use admin or superuser credentials for direct connections.

Example: Azure SQL Database

text
# Connection String
Server=tcp:myserver.database.windows.net,1433;
Database=mydb;
User ID=conexor_user@myserver;
Password=my_password;
Encrypt=True;
Connection Timeout=30;

# Azure Firewall Rule
Allow access from: Conexor IP ranges (contact support for current IPs)
Or: Allow Azure services = On (less secure)
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Quick questions

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Quick questions