IDS Connector: the core technical component that enables connection to a Data Space

To be part of a Data Space, it’s not enough simply to want to share information — it must be done safely, in a controlled manner, and with guarantees for all participants. That’s where a vital component comes into play: the IDS Connector. This technical element, developed according to the standards of the International Data Spaces Association (IDSA), is the gateway to the ecosystem. It enables each entity — whether a company, public administration, or research centre — to communicate with others without losing control of its data.

What exactly is an IDS Connector?

The IDS Connector (International Data Space Connector) is the secure connection point between a participant and the Data Space. It is not a repository or database: its purpose is to manage the entire data exchange lifecycle. Each organisation participating in the Data Space has its own connector, configured according to its specific needs. Through it, they can:

• Share data with other entities, defining the precise conditions of use.
• Receive data from other participants, in accordance with established agreements.
• Run processes or applications on the data without physically transferring it, thus preserving privacy.

In other words, the connector enables collaboration without exposure. 

Full control: usage policies

One of the most innovative aspects of the IDS Connector is the ability to attach usage policies (data contracts) to each dataset. These policies automatically define who can access the data, for what purpose, for how long, and under what conditions. For example, data may be used solely for research purposes or without permission for redistribution. In this way, each owner maintains complete sovereignty over their information, even after sharing it.

Interoperability and trust

The IDS Connector uses open interfaces and standards, meaning any certified connector can communicate with another, regardless of the provider or underlying technology. Moreover, each connector is linked to a secure, certified digital identity, ensuring that all interactions within the Data Space occur only between verified and trusted parties. This distributed trust model is essential for Data Spaces to expand and connect diverse organisations without compromising security.

A secure environment for innovation

Connectors don’t just transmit data — they can also run Data Apps directly within a secure environment. This allows analyses or transformations to be carried out without moving data from its original location. For instance, a small energy company could run a predictive model on another organisation’s consumption data without ever accessing the raw information, thanks to its connector’s capabilities. In this way, Data Spaces become ideal environments for developing AI solutions, predictive maintenance systems, or advanced analytics, always preserving data privacy and sovereignty.

Connectivity for the future

The IDS Connector is the technological backbone that makes European Data Spaces possible. Without it, interoperability, security, and data sovereignty would remain theoretical concepts. Thanks to its decentralised architecture and trusted communication protocols, every organisation can safely and autonomously participate in the Zamora Smart Data Space, fully compatible with other European ecosystems. 

Because in the new data economy, to connect is to collaborate — without giving up control.