1. Prepare the computer or server
UBC Data Bridge Agent runs on Linux and connects local files, databases and internal APIs to your workflows. Choose a computer or server that can reach the required resources and stays on while data is exchanged.
Before installation, confirm the Linux distribution, version and processor architecture with your administrator. Obtain the Agent package and installation instructions for that environment. Package names, installation steps and service controls depend on the supplied package.
Check the system clock, outbound HTTPS access to Data Bridge and corporate proxy settings, if used. Assign a dedicated service account with the permissions it needs.
2. Install and start the service
Obtain the package and its checksum from your Data Bridge administrator. Verify the file’s origin and integrity. Install Agent with Linux administrator privileges by following the instructions supplied with the package.
Enable automatic startup when the system boots. Check that the service runs under the assigned account and can read its settings, certificates and log. Record the actual service name and file locations for maintenance.
3. Connect Agent to Data Bridge
Open Agent settings in Data Bridge and create a registration key. In the installed Agent settings, enter the Data Bridge HTTPS address and register using the key. Keep the key out of logs, emails and shared files.
Wait for Data Bridge to show the connection. If Agent does not appear, check the server address, clock, proxy, certificate trust and outbound connectivity. See Agent troubleshooting for the general checks.
4. Allow the required resources
Add only the folders, databases and API addresses your workflows need. Use absolute folder paths. Give the service account permission to reach the directory and read or write files as required.
Network folders must be available to the service itself, not only to your personal session. An administrator should configure persistent mounts and verify access after a restart. Check SELinux or AppArmor rules when enabled: Data Bridge access does not replace operating system permissions.
Set Agent rules separately: allowed folders, filenames, addresses, ports and operations. A process that only reads reports does not need permission to delete or overwrite files. See Agent resources and permissions.
5. Check the connection and data exchange
- Confirm that Data Bridge shows Agent as connected.
- Test each approved resource using the service account.
- Select access through Agent in the relevant Data Bridge connection.
- Read a small test file or dataset and inspect the result.
- If writing is required, perform an approved test in a dedicated folder or test system.
- Restart the service and confirm that the connection and resource access recover.
6. Maintain and update Agent
Schedule updates for an agreed maintenance window. Back up settings according to your organisation’s rules before changing the package, keeping secrets protected. After updating, check registration, resources and a test run.
To investigate an error, collect its time, Agent name, Linux version, service status and the relevant log excerpt. Do not share registration keys, passwords or secret files. When an Agent is no longer needed, revoke its access in Data Bridge and remove local permissions.