DreamFactory

DreamFactory is an API generation platform that automatically creates REST APIs for databases and other data sources. It provides a web-based administration interface to configure connections, manage users, and secure endpoints without building a custom backend from scratch.

Key Features

• Automatic REST API generation from database schemas
• Supports a range of SQL and NoSQL backends (capabilities vary by edition)
• Web-based admin console for configuration and management
• Built-in authentication and authorization, including role-based access control
• API key support and multiple auth methods (capabilities vary by edition)
• Server-side scripting hooks to add custom business logic to requests and responses
• Generates API definitions and documentation (OpenAPI support)

Use Cases

• Create an API layer in front of legacy databases for modern web and mobile apps
• Standardize access to multiple data sources through consistent REST endpoints
• Rapidly prototype internal APIs with fine-grained access controls

Limitations and Considerations

• The open-source edition has reduced functionality compared to commercial offerings (for example, some connectors and advanced security/governance features may be unavailable)

DreamFactory is a strong fit when you need a secure API middle layer quickly, especially for existing databases and legacy systems. It emphasizes rapid API delivery with centralized administration and policy-driven access control.