How to Connect Tableau to Your Database

Connect Tableau to your database rather than static files to remove the manual work!

Tableau can connect to many types of data sources. If you want to get Tableau connected to your unit’s internal database or another server, there are a few steps to follow.

BEFORE YOU CONNECT

Make sure that the firewall on the server is updated to allow traffic from the TABLEAU-SERVERS NOG.

You may need to install a driver for Tableau depending on the database type, which may require administrator privileges on your machine. Start following the instructions below, and you will be prompted to add the driver if it is needed - or check out all driver downloads on Tableau’s Support site at (login required): Driver Download. This site also has additional support articles on the specific detailed information required for each connection type.

You will be prompted for a server name, port, login information, and potentially more, depending on the database type.

The list of data source connectors in Tableau Desktop.

With Tableau, there are many databases and other sources to connect to!

You will be prompted for a server name, port, login information, and potentially more, depending on the database type.

An example Oracle connection window in Tableau.

We typically recommend using an extract when connecting to a database. It typically results in better performance. When you publish your dashboard to Tableau Server, you can schedule an extract refresh.