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title: Overview sidebar_position: 1

Overview

Apache Superset‘s extension system allows developers to enhance and customize Superset’s functionality through a modular, plugin-based architecture. Extensions can add new visualization types, custom UI components, data processing capabilities, and integration points.

What are Superset Extensions?

Superset extensions are self-contained packages that extend the core platform's capabilities. They follow a standardized architecture that ensures compatibility, security, and maintainability while providing powerful customization options.

Extension Architecture

• Architecture - Architectural principles and high-level system overview
• Extension Project Structure - Standard project layout and organization
• Extension Metadata - Configuration and manifest structure

Development Guide

• Frontend Contribution Types - Types of UI contributions available
• Interacting with Host - Communication patterns with Superset core
• Development Mode - Tools and workflows for extension development

For information about runtime loading and dependency management, see the Dynamic Module Loading section in the Architecture page.

Deployment & Management

• Deploying Extension - Packaging and distribution strategies
• Security Implications - Security considerations and best practices

Hands-on Examples

• Quick Start - Complete Hello World extension walkthrough

Extension Capabilities

Extensions can provide:

• Custom Visualizations: New chart types and data visualization components
• UI Enhancements: Custom dashboards, panels, and interactive elements
• Data Connectors: Integration with external data sources and APIs
• Workflow Automation: Custom actions and batch processing capabilities
• Authentication Providers: SSO and custom authentication mechanisms
• Theme Customization: Custom styling and branding options

Getting Started

1. Learn the Architecture: Start with Architecture to understand the design philosophy
2. Set up Development: Follow the Development Mode guide to configure your environment
3. Build Your First Extension: Complete the Quick Start tutorial
4. Deploy and Share: Use the Deploying Extension guide to package your extension

Extension Ecosystem

The extension system is designed to foster a vibrant ecosystem of community-contributed functionality. By following the established patterns and guidelines, developers can create extensions that seamlessly integrate with Superset while maintaining the platform's reliability and performance standards.