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Connectors

Updated May 26, 2024 ·

Overview​

Tableau allows you to connect to various data sources, from local files to cloud databases. You can also save and share connections for easy access later.

Data Connectors​

Tableau provides multiple ways to connect to data:

  • Tableau Server – Access data from an internal Tableau Server or Tableau Public Online.
  • Files – Open Excel, CSV, PDF, and other file types.
  • Servers – Connect to databases like SQL Server, MySQL, and more.
  • Saved Data Sources – Store frequently used connections for quick access.

More Data Connectors​

Tableau supports over 80 data environments, including:

  • Cloud Services – Google Sheets, Google Analytics, Snowflake
  • Databases – Teradata, PostgreSQL, Oracle
  • Other Databases – Use JDBC, ODBC, or Web Data Connector if a direct connector isn't available.

Tableau Desktop vs. Tableau Public​

  • Tableau Desktop – Supports all data sources but requires a paid license.
  • Tableau Public – Limited to files and a few server connections.

Sharing Your Data​

Once your data is set up, you can save and share it as a Data Source (.tds file):

  • TDS files store connection details and customizations (e.g., calculated fields, filters).
  • They don’t contain actual data, just the connection and modifications.
  • Tableau Desktop is required to save TDS files (not available in Tableau Public).