DbSchema for Snowflake Database

DbSchema is a comprehensive tool for designing and managing Snowflake databases. It provides powerful features, like visual schema design, team collaboration with Git, easy schema deployment, and interactive HTML5 documentation.

How to Connect to a Snowflake Database

For a step-by-step video tutorial, click here

For written documentation, please continue reading below.

Open DbSchema, then click "Connect to Database" on the Main Screen and choose your database system. DbSchema will automatically download the required JDBC driver.

Standard Connection Setup

In DbSchema's connection dialog, you can choose "Standard" for a simplified setup, or "Edit Manually" to customize the JDBC URL.

Account URL from Snowflake Console

Step 1: Obtain Your Account URL

To connect DbSchema to your Snowflake database, begin by obtaining your account URL from the Snowflake Console, as shown below

Account URL from Snowflake Console

Step 2: Configure the Connection in DbSchema

Option 1: Standard Connection

If you choose the "Standard" connection option:

  • Copy your account URL from the Snowflake Console (e.g., https://xx32991.europe-west3.gcp.snowflakecomputing.com.
  • Paste the URL into the "Server Host or IP" field in DbSchema, but remove the "https://" prefix.
  • Enter your Snowflake username and password, then click "Connect."
    • Standard Connection Setup

  • Once connected, DbSchema will reverse-engineer your database schema, creating a visual layout of your tables and relationships.
DbSchema Layout

Option 2: Edit Manually

  • If you select "Edit Manually," enter the JDBC URL using this format:

    • jdbc:snowflake://your_account_URL?client_metadata_request_use_connection_ctx=true

  • Replace your_account_URL with your Snowflake account URL. Next, enter your Snowflake username and password, and click "Connect."
  • Once connected, DbSchema will reverse-engineer your database schema, creating a visual layout of your tables and relationships.
Manual Connection Setup

If you need more detailed connection information, read the Connection Dialog

Troubleshoot Firewall Issues

If you experience connection problems, check your firewall and antivirus settings, as they might be blocking the connection. More information on enabling Firewall Connections is available if needed.

Enable Windows Firewalls Note: Firewalls and antivirus software may block database connections.

If you encounter connection errors, enable logging for diagnostics by following the instructions here.