Summary

Directus transforms any SQL database into a flexible backend, offering instant REST/GraphQL APIs, a visual Studio, and native AI agent integration. It empowers builders and non-technical users alike, enabling direct interaction with live data without boilerplate code.

How It Works

Directus wraps SQL databases (Postgres, MySQL, etc.) with auto-generated APIs. Its key innovation is native AI integration via an embedded Assistant and MCP server, allowing AI agents to access live data under existing, granular access policies. This avoids data duplication and ensures governed AI operations. A visual Studio serves non-technical users.

Quick Start & Requirements

Self-host or deploy via Directus Cloud (provisioned in <90s). One-click deployment options exist, e.g., on Railway (includes PostgreSQL, Redis, S3 storage). Documentation is available.

Highlighted Details

• 45M+ downloads, 500K+ projects deployed.
• Automatic REST/GraphQL API generation from DB schema.
• Native AI Assistant and MCP server for direct, governed AI data interaction.
• Supports numerous SQL databases (Postgres, MySQL, MariaDB, MS SQL, SQLite, OracleDB, CockroachDB).
• Granular, field-level policy-based access control for humans and AI.
• Fully extensible (custom endpoints, hooks, interfaces, modules).

Maintenance & Community

Maintained by a core team and contributors. Community resources include a Forum, Discord, GitHub Issues, and a Roadmap. Contributing guidelines and a security policy are provided.

Licensing & Compatibility

Licensed under MSCL 1.0 (source-available). Free for organizations <$5M revenue / 50 employees via Open Innovation Grant. Commercial use above thresholds or with advanced features requires a paid license. A free core tier exists for exploration.

Limitations & Caveats

The MSCL 1.0 license is source-available, potentially restricting certain commercial/closed-source integrations beyond grant terms. Commercial use outside grant parameters requires a paid license.