# What is IDC?

In8Sync DirectConnect (IDC) is an integration platform that keeps your NetSuite data in sync with the external systems your business depends on — your online store, point-of-sale system, warehouse, or payment processor.

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Your data lives in NetSuite. IDC reads from and writes to your account, so orders, inventory, and financial records stay in one place — no manual re-entry required.
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## How it works

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### Install IDC in NetSuite

IDC is added to your NetSuite account as a SuiteApp. This one-time setup is performed by a NetSuite administrator. See [Installing IDC](/idc/idc-core/overview-1/install-suiteapp.md).
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### Connect your systems

Using the IDC dashboard, install apps that connect IDC to your external platforms — your Shopify store, Lightspeed POS, warehouse, and more.
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### IDC syncs automatically

Once connected, IDC runs sync flows on a schedule to move data between systems — orders flow into NetSuite, inventory updates flow out, settlements get reconciled.
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### Monitor and manage

From the IDC dashboard, your team monitors sync health, investigates errors, reviews inventory variances, and processes settlement reports.
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## Key terms

**App** — An integration between IDC and one external system. Each installed app adds a connection.

**Flow** — One specific type of data sync within an app — for example, "Orders to NetSuite". Each app likely has multiple flows.

**Sync** — One run of a flow. Syncs run on a schedule or can be triggered manually.

**Log** — A record of every sync attempt — successful or failed. Your primary tool for investigating errors.

**License** — Controls whether an installed app is active and authorized to run. If a license lapses, the app stops syncing.

**Marketplace** — Where you browse and install new apps.

**Dashboard** — The IDC home screen. Shows today's sync activity and the health of all active connections at a glance.

For a full alphabetical reference, see the [Glossary](/idc/getting-started/glossary.md).

## What to do next

* **New installation?** Start with [Installing IDC](/idc/idc-core/overview-1/install-suiteapp.md).
* **Already installed?** Go to [IDC Core](/idc/idc-core/overview.md).
* **Looking up a term?** Check the [Glossary](/idc/getting-started/glossary.md).


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