# Dataset Connections

## Overview

Dataset Connections allow administrators to configure external data source connections that power dashboard cards, reports, and data visualizations within the Nimble portal. Each connection defines how the system accesses a specific database or data warehouse to retrieve information for display.

## Supported Data Sources

The portal supports connecting to the following data source types:

* **SQL Server** — Microsoft SQL Server databases, commonly used for operational and reporting data
* **Snowflake** — Snowflake cloud data warehouse, used for large-scale analytics and data warehousing

## Managing Dataset Connections

### Viewing Connections

The Dataset Connections list displays all configured data source connections for the current tenant. Each entry shows:

* **Display Name** — A descriptive name identifying the connection's purpose
* **Source Type** — Whether the connection targets SQL Server or Snowflake
* **Database Schema** — The default schema used when querying the data source

### Creating a Connection

To create a new dataset connection:

1. Navigate to the Dataset Connections management page
2. Select **Create New**
3. Fill in the connection details:
   * **Display Name** — A meaningful name for the connection (e.g., "Reporting Data Warehouse")
   * **Source Type** — Select SQL Server or Snowflake
   * **Connection String** — The database connection string with server, credentials, and database name
   * **Database Schema** — The default schema to use for queries (optional)
4. Save the connection

### Editing a Connection

Existing connections can be updated by selecting them from the list. All fields including the connection string can be modified. Changes take effect immediately for any cards or reports using the connection.

### Deleting a Connection

Connections can be removed when they are no longer needed. Before deleting, verify that no active cards or reports depend on the connection.

## Data Request Settings

In addition to dataset connections, administrators can configure the Data Request feature, which provides a link to an external data request tool. This feature can be enabled or disabled per tenant through site settings.

## How Connections Are Used

Dataset connections serve as the bridge between the portal's visualization components and external data. When a dashboard card or report container is configured, it references a dataset connection to determine where to fetch its data. The connection string and schema are used at runtime to execute queries and return results for display.

## Related Features

* [**Container Designer**](/guides/container-designer.md) — Dashboard cards use dataset connections as their data source
* [**Cards & Card Data**](/guides/cards-card-data.md) — Card data configuration references dataset connections
* [**Site Settings**](/guides/site-settings-administration.md) — Data request settings are managed alongside other site configuration


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