# Data Flows

> **Prerequisite:** Complete the [Getting Started guide](https://docs.umh.app/getting-started) to understand basic connections and data organization.

Data flows move and transform industrial data in UMH Core. Three types serve different purposes:

## Flow Types

### [Bridges](https://docs.umh.app/usage/data-flows/bridges)

Move data into and out of the Unified Namespace with connection monitoring and automatic location path. Support for 50+ industrial protocols (OPC UA, Modbus, S7) plus IT systems. Write flows coming soon - use stand-alone flows meanwhile.

### [Stand-alone Flows](https://docs.umh.app/usage/data-flows/stand-alone-flow)

Raw Benthos access for custom processing when bridges or stream processors aren't sufficient. Used as fallback for write flows, external integrations, and specialized transformations.

### [Stream Processors](https://docs.umh.app/usage/data-flows/stream-processor)

Transform existing UNS data into different structures. Part of the [data modeling system](https://docs.umh.app/usage/data-modeling/stream-processors) for aggregating device data into business views.

## Quick Start

Most users start with bridges to connect devices:

1. **Data Flows** → **Add Bridge**
2. Select your protocol (OPC UA, Modbus, S7)
3. Configure connection and location
4. Deploy to start data collection

## Learn More

* [Getting Started Guide](https://docs.umh.app/getting-started) - Connect your first device
* [Data Modeling](https://docs.umh.app/usage/data-modeling) - Structure and validate data
* [Unified Namespace](https://docs.umh.app/usage/unified-namespace) - Understanding topics and payloads