What is Salesforce Data Loader?

What is Data Loader?

Data Loader is a client application for the bulk import or export of data. Use it to insert, update, delete, or export Salesforce records.

When importing data, Data Loader reads, extracts, and loads data from comma-separated values (CSV) files or from a database connection. When exporting data, it outputs CSV files.

You can use Data Loader in two different ways:

User interface — Specify configuration parameters and CSV files used for import and export, and define field mappings that map field names in your import file to field names in Salesforce.

Command line (Windows only) — Specify the configuration, data sources, mappings, and actions in files. The command line enables you to set up Data Loader for automated processing.

Data Loader offers the following key features:

An easy-to-use wizard interface for interactive use
An alternate command-line interface for automated batch operations (Windows only)
Support for large files with up to 5 million records
Drag-and-drop field mapping
Support for all objects, including custom objects
Can be used to process data in both Salesforce and Database.com
Detailed success and error log files in CSV format
A built-in CSV file viewer

Support for Windows and Mac

Supported Windows Versions:

Windows 10
Windows 11

Supported MacOS Versions:

MacOS 10.15 (Catalina) — Support for Catalina will stop in Nov 2022 when a new MacOS is released
MacOS 11.x (Big Sur)
MacOS 12.x (Monterey)

When to Use Data Loader?

Data Loader complements the web-based import wizards that are accessible from the Setup menu in the online application. Refer to the following guidelines to determine which method best suits your business needs:

Use Data Loader When:

You must load as many as 5,000,000 records. Data Loader is supported for loads of up to 5 million records. If you must load more than 5 million records, we recommend you work with a Salesforce partner or visit the AppExchange for a suitable partner product.
You must load into an object that isn’t yet supported by the import wizards.
Your data includes complex field mappings that you must load consistently on a regular basis.
You want to schedule regular data loads, such as nightly imports.
You want to export your data for backup purposes.

Use the Import Wizards When:

You’re loading less than 50,000 records.
The object you must import is supported by import wizards. To see what import wizards are available and thus what objects they support, from Setup, enter Data Import Wizard in the Quick Find box, then select Import Wizard.
You want to prevent duplicates by uploading records according to account name and site, contact email address, or lead email address.
Your target object has fewer than 50 fields.
Your data doesn’t include complex field mappings.

GitHub Link (v56) : Click Here

Download Link (v56) : Click Here

For more information on Data Loader, see Data Loader Developer Guide and Help Guide.