| Document and Entity Information | Feb. 09, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | TERADATA CORP /DE/ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000816761 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 9, 2022 |
| Entity File Number | 001-33458 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 75-3236470 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 17095 Via Del Campo |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Diego |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92127 |
| City Area Code | (866) |
| Local Phone Number | 548-8348 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | TDC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
