Developer Tools solution
Run Directus Locally with FlyEnv
Directus projects commonly run on Node.js with a SQL database and may use Redis or a local proxy. FlyEnv helps manage the services that support a local Directus data platform.
Local project stack
Services FlyEnv can manage around Directus
About Directus
Directus is a data platform that layers a studio, authentication, permissions, automations, files, and REST or GraphQL APIs over an existing SQL database. It is designed around the database schema as the source of truth rather than around a code-first content model.
Local Directus work begins with Node.js and the database being exposed. Schema snapshots, role rules, file storage, and Flows are commonly tested together; Redis, object storage, and email are optional services selected by the project configuration.
Core capabilities
- Database Introspection
- Data Studio
- REST & GraphQL APIs
- Roles and Permissions
- Flows Automation
- File Management
Common use cases
- APIs over existing SQL data
- Internal data administration
- Headless content operations
- Workflow automation around records
- Partner or customer data portals
A Directus environment is anchored to the database schema
The selected database and its schema changes are central; ancillary services should be added only where Directus is configured to use them.
- Node.js and Directus service
- Runs the API, Data Studio, and project extensions.
- SQL database
- PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, or another supported database provides both the data model and Directus metadata.
- Schema snapshots and extensions
- Keep schema snapshots, custom endpoints, hooks, and interface extensions alongside the local service.
- Storage, Redis, and mail when configured
- File adapters, cache services, and SMTP belong only to the Directus configuration being tested.
Project resources
For installation commands, supported versions, and project-specific configuration, refer to the official Directus documentation.
Typical local stack
The exact services depend on the project, its release, and its local configuration. This is a common local setup, not a fixed requirement.
How FlyEnv helps
Match Node.js versions
Use the runtime supported by the Directus project.
Keep the data source local
Run the database that the project uses as its source of truth.
Add Redis by configuration
Start cache services only when the project requires them.
Use secure local URLs
Configure a domain and HTTPS for browser or API client testing.
Set up the local environment
Project installation stays with the upstream documentation. FlyEnv manages the runtimes, databases, web servers, and supporting services around it.
- 1Follow Directus documentation for installation and project configuration.
- 2Select the Node.js runtime required by the project.
- 3Start the SQL database selected for the Directus project.
- 4Start Redis only when the configuration uses it.
- 5Configure a local domain, proxy, and HTTPS when clients need one.
- 6Group the data platform services for convenient local starts.
Related solutions
Ready to run Directus locally?
Use FlyEnv to manage the runtimes, databases, web servers, and services around your local Directus environment.