# Connect Data Systems for Classification (/docs/classification/scans/connect-data-systems-for-classification)

### Introduction [#introduction]

Classification helps you identify and classify personal data within your data systems. Before you can use this feature, you'll need to connect your data systems to Transcend. This guide explains how to connect different types of data systems.

<Callout type="info">
  **Note:** Not all data system integrations support automated Classification. If you have a request for a Classification integration, please reach out to your Customer Experience representative.
</Callout>

### Prerequisites [#prerequisites]

In order to use Classification, you will need administrator access to Transcend and to the data systems that you wish to scan.

### Connect a Data System [#connect-a-data-system]

Choose a data system to connect.

- Navigate to **Infrastructure > Integrations** in the left sidebar

![View datapoints and their categories](/images/sanity/2026-04-21-quickstart-step-1-integrations-list.png)

- Click **Add Integration**
  - **Search** for and select your data system (e.g.,)
  - On the modal overview step, click **Add**

![View datapoints and their categories](/images/sanity/2026-04-21-quickstart-step-2-overview-modal.png)

- On the modal connection step, add a system owner (optional), and click **Continue to Connection Details**, which will take you to the **Connection** tab in Integrations, where you will see an orange **Not Configured** badge next to the system name.

![View datapoints and their categories](/images/sanity/2026-04-21-quickstart-step-3-connection-step.png)

In the **Connection** tab, there will be detailed instructions on what to do next.

![View datapoints and their categories](/images/sanity/2026-04-21-connect-data-systems-step-4-connection-not-configured.png)

- If you are connecting an **internal database**, required information usually includes:
  - Server address and port
  - Database name
  - Username and password (or other authentication details)
  - Connection options (SSL, etc.)
  - If you are connecting a **SaaS tool** or **storage provider**, required information typically includes:
    - Authorizing via OAuth
    - Entering API credentials
    - Granting necessary permissions
- If connection is successful, the badge by the data system name will update to **Connected**.

![View datapoints and their categories](/images/sanity/2026-04-21-connect-data-systems-step-5-connection-connected.png)

- Run an [Ad Hoc Scan](./configure-classification-scans.mdx) or [set up recurring scans](./configure-classification-scans.mdx) following this guide:

### Alternative approach [#alternative-approach]

You can also add data systems directly from the Browse Data Systems page:

- Navigate to **Classfication > Browse Data Systems**
- Click **Add a Database**
- Select your database type and click **Add**
- Click **View Database** to open the integration details
- Follow the connection steps as described above