Data Sources Intermediate

Connecting to Databases

2 min read Updated February 11, 2026
Step-by-step guide to connecting PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server, and other databases to clariBI.

Connect your databases directly to clariBI for real-time analytics.

Supported Databases

Relational Databases

  • PostgreSQL: Full support with SSL
  • MySQL: Including MariaDB
  • SQL Server: Microsoft SQL Server
  • SQLite: Local database files

Connection Setup

Step 1: Start Connection Wizard

  1. Go to Data Sources
  2. Click Add New > Database
  3. Select your database type

Step 2: Enter Connection Details

Required information:
- Host: Server address (IP or hostname)
- Port: Database port number
- Database: Database name
- Username: Database user
- Password: User password

Step 3: Configure Options

  • SSL Mode: Enable for secure connections
  • Connection Timeout: Adjust if needed
  • Read-Only: Recommended for safety

Step 4: Test Connection

  1. Click Test Connection
  2. Wait for verification
  3. Review any error messages
  4. Fix issues and retry

Step 5: Select Tables

  1. Browse available schemas
  2. Select tables to import
  3. Preview table structure
  4. Choose sync frequency

Security Best Practices

Database User Permissions

Create a dedicated read-only user:
```sql
-- PostgreSQL example
CREATE USER claribi_reader WITH PASSWORD 'secure_password';
GRANT CONNECT ON DATABASE yourdb TO claribi_reader;
GRANT SELECT ON ALL TABLES IN SCHEMA public TO claribi_reader;
```

Network Security

  • Use SSL/TLS connections
  • Whitelist clariBI IP addresses
  • Use VPN or SSH tunnels for sensitive data
  • Avoid exposing databases to public internet

Credential Storage

clariBI encrypts all stored credentials:
- AES-256 encryption at rest
- Secure credential vault
- No plain-text storage

Sync Configuration

Sync Frequency Options

  • Real-time: Every query fetches fresh data
  • Hourly: Cached data, refreshed hourly
  • Daily: Updated once per day
  • Manual: Only when you trigger refresh

Sync Scheduling

Set preferred sync times:
- Choose time zone
- Set maintenance windows
- Configure retry policies

Troubleshooting Connections

Common Issues

  • Connection refused: Check firewall rules
  • Authentication failed: Verify credentials
  • SSL error: Check certificate configuration
  • Timeout: Increase timeout or check network

Testing Queries

Test your connection with simple queries:
```sql
SELECT 1; -- Basic connectivity
SELECT COUNT(*) FROM your_table; -- Data access
```

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