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Sql Server Ole Db Driver < 1080p 2026 >
Know it. Respect it. But do not reach for it first.
Microsoft’s strategic direction for universal data access is ODBC . For new development targeting SQL Server, Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server is the recommended choice. It is cross-platform (Windows, Linux, macOS), performs equally well, and supports all modern SQL Server features. sql server ole db driver
But if you are deep in the Microsoft BI stack—specifically SSIS or SSAS—or maintaining a legacy COM-based application, is not only relevant; it is essential. Microsoft continues to release updates (versions 18, 19, and future), proving that OLE DB is not dead—it is just retired from general duty and serving a tactical role in the data professional's arsenal. Know it
In the ecosystem of Microsoft data access technologies, the OLE DB Driver for SQL Server holds a unique and often misunderstood position. For many years, it was declared a legacy technology, overshadowed by the rise of ODBC. However, with the modern iteration— MSOLEDBSQL —Microsoft has revived OLE DB as a high-performance, feature-rich bridge for specific, critical workloads. What is OLE DB? OLE DB (Object Linking and Embedding, Database) is a COM-based data access API designed by Microsoft. Unlike ODBC, which is primarily focused on relational SQL databases, OLE DB was built to access any data source—relational databases, email stores, directory services, flat files, and even Excel spreadsheets—in a tabular format. But if you are deep in the Microsoft
Know it. Respect it. But do not reach for it first.
Microsoft’s strategic direction for universal data access is ODBC . For new development targeting SQL Server, Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server is the recommended choice. It is cross-platform (Windows, Linux, macOS), performs equally well, and supports all modern SQL Server features.
But if you are deep in the Microsoft BI stack—specifically SSIS or SSAS—or maintaining a legacy COM-based application, is not only relevant; it is essential. Microsoft continues to release updates (versions 18, 19, and future), proving that OLE DB is not dead—it is just retired from general duty and serving a tactical role in the data professional's arsenal.
In the ecosystem of Microsoft data access technologies, the OLE DB Driver for SQL Server holds a unique and often misunderstood position. For many years, it was declared a legacy technology, overshadowed by the rise of ODBC. However, with the modern iteration— MSOLEDBSQL —Microsoft has revived OLE DB as a high-performance, feature-rich bridge for specific, critical workloads. What is OLE DB? OLE DB (Object Linking and Embedding, Database) is a COM-based data access API designed by Microsoft. Unlike ODBC, which is primarily focused on relational SQL databases, OLE DB was built to access any data source—relational databases, email stores, directory services, flat files, and even Excel spreadsheets—in a tabular format.