If you’re looking to build a powerful web app without coding, combining Xano and Softr is like finding the perfect recipe for success. Xano is a no-code backend platform that handles your data and logic, while Softr turns that data into a beautiful, user-friendly frontend. Together, they let you create anything from client portals to task managers fast and easy. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to integrate Xano with Softr in a way that’s simple to follow, even if you’re new to no-code tools. Let’s dive in!
Why pair Xano with Softr?
Before we start, let’s talk about why this combo rocks. Xano is your behind-the-scenes powerhouse; it stores data, runs logic, and scales as your app grows. Softr on the other hand, is your frontend wizard, making your app look good and work smoothly for users. Unlike Airtable (which Softr also supports), Xano gives you more control over your data and lets you handle bigger, more complex projects. When you connect them, you get a full-stack solution without touching a line of code. Pretty cool, right?
Now, let’s get to the fun part connecting them step-by-step.
Step 1: Set Up Your Xano Backend
First, you’ll need a Xano account. Head to xano.com, sign up if you haven’t already, and create a new “instance” (that’s Xano’s term for a project). Once you’re in, set up your database:
- Create a Table: Click “Database” in the sidebar, then “Add Table.” Name it something like “Tasks” or “Posts” depending on your app. Add columns like “Title” (text), “Description” (text), or “Status” (text) to store your data.
- Add Some Data: Pop in a few sample entries manually so you have something to work with. For example, if it’s a task app, add tasks like “Finish blog” or “Call client.”
Next, Xano automatically creates API endpoints for your table (like GET, POST, etc.). You don’t need to mess with these yet just know they’re there, ready to talk to Softr.
Step 2: Get Your Xano Database Connector Ready
To connect Xano to Softr, you’ll need to activate Xano’s “Database Connector” add-on. This feature lets Softr tap directly into your Xano database, making it super easy to pull data into your app. Don’t worry it’s simpler than it sounds. Here’s how to set it up, step-by-step:
- Log In to Xano: Head to xano.com and sign into your account. You’ll land on your Xano dashboard.
- Go to Your Profile: In the top-right corner, click on your profile picture or initials. A dropdown menu will appear select “Instances” from the list. This takes you to a page showing all your Xano projects (or “instances”).
- Select Your Instance: Find the instance you’re working on (e.g., “My Task App”). If you only have one, it’ll be the only option. Click on its name to open it.
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Open Settings: Once inside your instance, look next to the instance name at the top. You’ll see a small gear icon (⚙️) that’s the settings button. Click it to open the configuration options.
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Enable the Database Connector: Scroll down the settings page until you see “Database Connector.” It might say “Disabled” or “Not Active” by default. Click the toggle switch or button to turn it on. This step unlocks your database so Softr can access it securely.
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Grab Your Credentials: Once the Database Connector is active, Xano will display a set of connection details right there on the screen. You’ll see:
- Host: A URL or address (like xano-db.example.com).
- Port: Usually 5432 (this is the default, but double-check).
- Database: The name of your database (often matches your instance name).
- Username: A unique login name Xano generates for you.
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Password: A secure password for the connection. Copy all these details somewhere safe like a notepad app or a secure document. You’ll need every single one to link Xano to Softr, so don’t skip this!
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Save and Confirm: If there’s a “Save” button after enabling the connector, hit it. Xano might take a second to activate everything, but once it’s ready, you’re set.
This step is super important because Softr connects directly to Xano’s database (not its API layer, as of April 2025). That means your data flows straight from Xano’s storage to Softr’s front end with no complicated middle steps. It’s a secure, straightforward way to tie the two tools together, and these credentials are your golden ticket to making it happen.
Step 3: Connect Xano to Softr
Now, let’s hop over to Softr. If you don’t have an account, sign up at softr.io. Once you’re in, here’s how to link Xano:
- Start a New App: From the Softr dashboard, click “Create New App” Pick a blank app or a template of your choice.
- Add Xano as a Data Source: In the left sidebar, find “Data Sources” and click “Connect Data Source.” Choose “Xano” from the list.
- Enter Credentials: Paste in the Host, Port, Database, Username, and Password from Xano’s Database Connector. Double-checking them typos here can trip you up.
- Test the Connection: Hit “Connect.” If everything’s correct, Softr will say “Connected,” and you’ll see your Xano tables (like “Tasks”) pop up. Success!
This step links Softr to your Xano database, so all your data is ready to flow into your app.
Step 4: Build Your App with Xano Data
With Xano connected, it’s time to bring your app to life:
- Add a Block: Click the “+” button in Softr to add a block like a “List” block to show your Xano data.
- Link to Xano: In the block settings, go to “Data Source,” select your Xano integration, and pick the table (e.g., “Tasks”). Choose a workspace if you have multiple usually, it’s just one.
- Map Your Fields: Tell Softr what to show. For example, map “Title” to the list’s title field and “Description” to the description field. If you’ve got images or other data in Xano, map those too.
- Preview It: Hit “Preview” to see your data in action. Your tasks or posts should now appear in a neat list!
You can add more blocks like a “List Details” block to show full details when someone clicks an item. It’s all drag-and-drop, so you can play around until it feels right.
Step 5: Customize and Go Live
Softr makes it easy to polish your app:
- Style It Up: Change colors, fonts, or layouts in the “Style” tab to match your vibe.
- Add Features: Want users to add new tasks? Drop in a “Form” block, connect it to your Xano table, and map the fields. Xano will store the new data automatically.
- Publish: When you’re happy, click “Publish” to get a live URL. Share it with your team, clients, or the world!
You can add more blocks like a “List Details” block to show full details when someone clicks an item. It’s all drag-and-drop, so you can play around until it feels right.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Ride
- Filter Data: In Xano, set up database views (like “Active Tasks Only”) and connect those to Softr for cleaner displays.
- Permissions: Use Xano’s logic to control who sees what (e.g., only show a user’s own tasks). Softr respects these rules.
- Test as You Go: Preview your app often to catch any issues early like a field not showing up right.
Final Thoughts
Integrating Xano with Softr is like pairing peanut butter with jelly—each makes the other better. Xano handles your data and heavy lifting, while Softr makes it shine for your users. In just a few steps, you’ve got a fully functional app that’s easy to manage and ready to scale. So, fire up Xano, jump into Softr, and start building something amazing today.
Got questions? Feel free to drop an email to support@astreait.com