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The Algolia dashboard has two methods to index without code:
  • A connector reads your data from a source you host, then updates your on a schedule or on demand. Use a connector for data that changes.
  • A file upload sends one file from your computer to your index. Use a file upload for sample data.

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Index your data with connectors

You point a connector at your data and choose the index it keeps up to date. Algolia manages the ingestion pipeline, so you don’t have to write your own. You can also apply transformations to your records before indexing. For files, use one of these connectors: For more information, see Connectors.

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Upload a file for a one-time import

Use a file upload to index a local file—you don’t need to host it. Keep your files smaller than 100 MB. Larger files can make your browser unresponsive. To index them, use a connector or the API.

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Import file formats

You can import JSON, CSV, and TSV files.

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Upload the file

An upload adds to the index you’re viewing, and never deletes records. Every record in your index has a unique object ID. If a record in your file has the same object ID as a record in your index, the upload replaces it. If a record in your file doesn’t have an object ID, Algolia generates one from the record’s content.
  1. Click Add records > Upload file. On an empty index, click Upload records > Upload file.
  2. Drop the file into the Upload records box, or select the file on your file system. Then click Upload.
When Algolia indexes your data, the dashboard shows a success notification.

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Create a new index

To upload your file to a new index, create the index first:
  1. In the Algolia dashboard, go to the Indices tab. Click New > Index.
  2. Enter a name for your index. Click Create.
Last modified on September 4, 2026