About Directus
Directus is a self-hostable backend and headless CMS that sits on top of an existing database. It gives teams an admin app, APIs and a no-code interface for managing data.
What it does
Directus connects to a database and adds a layer of tools on top of it. Teams can browse and edit records in a visual interface, while developers get REST and GraphQL APIs to read the same data in their own apps. Permissions control which users and AI tools can see or change each part of the data. The product also includes an MCP server for connecting AI assistants to business data.
Key features
- Visual data model and record editing
- REST and GraphQL APIs
- Role-based access policies
- Built-in MCP server for AI tools
- Extensions for custom interface code
Who it's for
Teams whose data lives in a database and who want non-technical staff to manage it. Content editors, designers and product managers can work with live data without filing tickets. Developers use it as a backend for websites and apps.
Pricing and good to know
The software can be self-hosted on your own infrastructure. A cloud version called Directus Cloud is also offered. Self-hosting means you manage servers, backups and upgrades yourself. Because the tool sits on top of your database, the structure of that database still determines what the interface can show.
Highlights
- Browse and edit records in a visual interface
- Read the same data through REST or GraphQL
- Control access with role-based policies
- Connect AI tools through an MCP server
- Extend the interface with custom code
