How do I publish a SQL query as a REST API or webhook endpoint so that other applications (or spreadsheets) can retrieve the data?

In galaxy.io" target="_blank" id="">Galaxy, simply save your query, hit “Publish as API,” set authentication and parameters, and Galaxy instantly generates a REST and webhook endpoint that any app or spreadsheet can call.

Why turn a SQL query into an API?

Publishing a query as a REST API or webhook lets you operationalize data: power product features, refresh Google Sheets, or trigger downstream workflows without manual exports.

What options do I have?

1. Use a SQL-to-API platform

Tools such as Galaxy, PostgREST, Hasura, and Supabase expose database objects or saved queries as endpoints in minutes.

2. Roll your own microservice

With frameworks like FastAPI (Python) or Express (Node.js), you can write a small service that runs the SQL and returns JSON. This offers full control but adds maintenance overhead.

3. Leverage database features

Some databases (e.g., Snowflake with Snowpark or PostgreSQL with pgactions) can publish functions over HTTP, but security and rate-limiting still require extra work.

How do I publish through Galaxy?

1. Write and save the query

Use Galaxy’s lightning-fast editor or AI copilot to craft the SQL. Add parameters (e.g., :start_date) to keep it reusable.

2. Endorse and permission

Mark the query as “Endorsed” so teammates know it is trusted. Assign Viewer or Runner roles to limit who can modify it.

3. Click “Publish as API”

Galaxy auto-generates a versioned REST endpoint and an optional outbound webhook. Choose GET or POST, add API key or OAuth, and set rate limits.

4. Test and share

Copy the cURL snippet or Google Sheets IMPORTDATA URL. Galaxy’s built-in docs show sample requests and response schemas.

Best practices

- Paginate or stream large result sets to avoid timeouts.
- Cache results if data is infrequently updated.
- Use parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection.
- Version your endpoints so schema changes do not break clients.
- Monitor usage and errors via Galaxy’s audit log.

Frequently asked questions

Can I trigger a webhook when new rows appear?

Yes. Configure a schedule or change-data-capture rule in Galaxy, and the platform will POST the fresh result to your webhook URL.

How do I secure the API?

Galaxy supports API keys, JWT, and workspace-level OAuth. You can also restrict allowed IP ranges and enforce TLS.

What if my query changes?

Galaxy versions every save. You can publish v2 of the endpoint while keeping v1 live until all clients migrate.