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What is Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client and Why Use It?

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Microsoft Sql Server 2012 Native Client is a crucial component for connecting applications to SQL Server databases, and rental-server.net offers comprehensive solutions for utilizing it effectively. This article explores its definition, applications, and benefits, providing you with the knowledge to optimize your SQL Server connectivity. Discover how to leverage SQL Server connectivity, client drivers, and data access components for superior performance.

1. What is Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client?

Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client is a standalone library used to connect to SQL Server databases, offering both OLE DB and ODBC interfaces. SQL Server 2012 Native Client provides a native interface for accessing SQL Server, enhancing performance and security compared to older methods. According to Microsoft documentation, it combines the SQLOLEDB provider and the SQLODBC driver into one native dynamic-link library (DLL).

1.1 Why is Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client Important?

Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client matters due to its role in facilitating efficient and secure connections between applications and SQL Server databases. It ensures high performance and robust data access, which are crucial for applications relying on SQL Server. Using it simplifies development and deployment by providing a unified interface for both OLE DB and ODBC.

  • Performance: Delivers optimized performance by leveraging native connectivity.
  • Security: Enhances security through updated encryption and authentication methods.
  • Compatibility: Ensures compatibility with SQL Server 2012 and earlier versions.
  • Unified Interface: Simplifies development with a single DLL for OLE DB and ODBC.
  • Feature Support: Supports the latest SQL Server features, ensuring access to new functionalities.

1.2 Who Should Use Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client?

Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client is most beneficial for developers, database administrators, and system integrators. Developers use it to build applications that require fast and reliable connections to SQL Server. Database administrators rely on it for managing and maintaining SQL Server environments. System integrators implement it to ensure seamless integration between SQL Server and other systems. It’s especially useful for those still operating within environments that include SQL Server 2012 due to legacy application support.

1.3 Key Features and Capabilities of Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client

Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client includes several key features that make it essential for connecting to SQL Server databases:

  • OLE DB and ODBC Support: Provides interfaces for both OLE DB and ODBC, offering flexibility in application development.
  • Native Connectivity: Ensures high performance by using native connectivity to SQL Server.
  • Security Enhancements: Includes updated encryption and authentication methods for secure data access.
  • Support for SQL Server Features: Supports new features introduced in SQL Server 2012, such as Always On Availability Groups.
  • Redistributable: Can be easily distributed with applications, simplifying deployment.

1.4 How Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client Works

Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client works by providing a direct communication channel between applications and SQL Server databases. When an application needs to access data, it uses the Native Client to send requests to the server and receive responses. This process involves the following steps:

  1. Application Request: The application initiates a connection using either OLE DB or ODBC.
  2. Native Client Processing: The Native Client processes the request, establishing a connection to the SQL Server instance.
  3. Data Transmission: Data is transmitted between the application and SQL Server using the native protocol.
  4. Response Handling: The Native Client receives the response from SQL Server and delivers it to the application.

1.5 Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client vs. Other Connectivity Options

Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client differs from other connectivity options like the older SQLOLEDB provider and the SQLODBC driver in several ways:

  • SQLOLEDB and SQLODBC: These are older, separate components that have been superseded by the Native Client. According to Microsoft, the Native Client combines the functionality of both into a single DLL, simplifying development and deployment.
  • ADO.NET: ADO.NET is a .NET Framework data access technology that provides a managed way to connect to SQL Server. While ADO.NET is suitable for .NET applications, the Native Client offers better performance for native applications.
  • ODBC Driver 17 for SQL Server: The ODBC Driver 17 is a more recent driver that supports newer versions of SQL Server. However, for applications specifically targeting SQL Server 2012, the Native Client remains a viable option.
Feature Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client SQLOLEDB SQLODBC ADO.NET ODBC Driver 17 for SQL Server
Interface OLE DB and ODBC OLE DB ODBC .NET Data Provider ODBC
Performance High Moderate Moderate Moderate to High High
Security Enhanced Basic Basic Enhanced Enhanced
Compatibility SQL Server 2005-2012 SQL Server 7.0-2008 SQL Server 7.0-2008 SQL Server 2005 and later SQL Server 2008 and later
Development Native applications Native applications Native applications .NET applications Native applications
Support Limited Discontinued Discontinued Active Active
Key Advantage Unified interface for OLE DB and ODBC Legacy support Legacy support Managed code, .NET integration Latest SQL Server features
Recommended Use Applications targeting SQL Server 2012 Legacy systems Legacy systems .NET-based applications, modern SQL Server Modern SQL Server environments

1.6 Where to Download Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client

You can download Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client from the Microsoft Download Center. It is available as part of the SQL Server 2012 Feature Pack. To ensure you get the correct version, visit the Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Feature Pack page and select the appropriate download for your system architecture (x86, x64, or Itanium).

rental-server.net also provides links and guidance on obtaining the necessary components for seamless integration with your hosted server solutions.

2. How to Install Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client

Installing Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client is a straightforward process. This section provides a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth installation.

2.1 Prerequisites for Installing Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client

Before you begin the installation, ensure that your system meets the following prerequisites:

  • Operating System: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Server 2008, or later.
  • Administrative Privileges: You need administrative rights to install the Native Client.
  • SQL Server Instance: An instance of SQL Server 2012 or an earlier version to connect to.
  • Download the Installer: Download the sqlncli.msi file from the Microsoft Download Center.

2.2 Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Follow these steps to install Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client:

  1. Locate the Installer: Find the sqlncli.msi file that you downloaded.
  2. Run the Installer: Double-click the sqlncli.msi file to start the installation wizard.
  3. Welcome Screen: Click “Next” on the welcome screen to proceed.
  4. License Agreement: Read the license agreement, and if you agree, select “I accept the terms in the License Agreement” and click “Next”.
  5. Feature Selection: On the Feature Selection screen, you can choose to install the client components only or include the SDK components. To install both, select “Client Components” and “SDK Components”. Click “Next”.
  6. Installation Confirmation: Click “Install” to begin the installation process.
  7. User Account Control: If prompted by User Account Control, click “Yes” to allow the installation to proceed.
  8. Installation Progress: The installation wizard will display the progress of the installation.
  9. Completion: Once the installation is complete, click “Finish” to exit the wizard.

2.3 Silent Installation Options

For automated deployments, you can perform a silent installation using the command line. Open a command prompt with administrative privileges and use the following command:

msiexec /i sqlncli.msi /qn IACCEPTSQLNCLILICENSETERMS=YES

To install both the client and SDK components silently, use this command:

msiexec /i sqlncli.msi ADDLOCAL=ALL /qn IACCEPTSQLNCLILICENSETERMS=YES

2.4 Verifying the Installation

To verify that the installation was successful, follow these steps:

  1. Check the Installation Directory: Navigate to %SYSTEMROOT%system32 and verify that the following files are present: sqlncli11.dll, sqlnclir11.rll, and s11ch_sqlncli.chm.
  2. Check the SDK Directory: Navigate to %PROGRAMFILES%Microsoft SQL Server110SDK and verify that the sqlncli.h and sqlncli11.lib files are present.
  3. ODBC Data Source Administrator: Open the ODBC Data Source Administrator (search for “ODBC Data Sources” in the Start menu) and check that the “SQL Server Native Client 11.0” driver is listed in the Drivers tab.

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2.5 Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

During the installation, you may encounter some common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Insufficient Privileges: Ensure that you are running the installer with administrative privileges.
  • Conflicting Installations: If you have an older version of SQL Server Native Client installed, it may conflict with the new installation. Uninstall the older version before proceeding.
  • Missing Prerequisites: Make sure that your operating system meets the minimum requirements.
  • Installation Logs: Check the installation logs for detailed error messages. The logs can be found in the %TEMP% directory.

3. How to Configure Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client

Configuring Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client involves setting up the necessary connections and parameters to ensure seamless communication with SQL Server databases. This section outlines the key configuration steps.

3.1 Setting Up ODBC Data Sources

ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) allows applications to connect to SQL Server databases. Here’s how to set up an ODBC data source using Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client:

  1. Open ODBC Data Source Administrator: Search for “ODBC Data Sources” in the Start menu and open the ODBC Data Source Administrator (either 32-bit or 64-bit, depending on your application).
  2. Select the System DSN Tab: Choose the “System DSN” tab. System DSNs are available to all users on the computer.
  3. Add a New Data Source: Click the “Add” button.
  4. Choose the Driver: Select “SQL Server Native Client 11.0” from the list of drivers and click “Finish”.
  5. Create a New Data Source to SQL Server:
    • Name: Enter a descriptive name for the data source.
    • Description: Add a brief description (optional).
    • Server: Enter the name of the SQL Server instance or its IP address.
  6. Authentication:
    • Choose how SQL Server verifies the authenticity of the connection.
    • With SQL Server authentication using a login ID and password entered by the user: Requires a SQL Server login and password.
    • With Windows NT authentication using the network login ID: Uses the current Windows user’s credentials.
  7. Database Settings:
    • Change the default database to: Select the database you want to connect to.
  8. Encryption and Other Settings:
    • Configure encryption, MARS (Multiple Active Result Sets), and other advanced settings as needed.
  9. Test the Data Source: Click “Test Data Source” to verify the connection.
  10. Finish: Click “Finish” to save the data source configuration.

3.2 Configuring Connection Strings

Connection strings are used in applications to specify the parameters needed to connect to a SQL Server database. Here are examples of connection strings using Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client:

OLE DB Connection String:

Provider=SQLNCLI11.1;Server=myServerAddress;Database=myDataBase;Uid=myUsername;Pwd=myPassword;

ODBC Connection String:

Driver={SQL Server Native Client 11.0};Server=myServerAddress;Database=myDataBase;Uid=myUsername;Pwd=myPassword;

Replace myServerAddress, myDataBase, myUsername, and myPassword with your actual server address, database name, username, and password.

3.3 Optimizing Performance

To optimize the performance of Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client, consider the following:

  • Connection Pooling: Use connection pooling to reduce the overhead of establishing new connections. Connection pooling allows applications to reuse existing connections, improving performance.
  • MARS (Multiple Active Result Sets): Enable MARS to allow multiple pending requests per connection. This can improve performance for applications that need to execute multiple queries concurrently.
  • Encryption: Use encryption to secure data transmission between the application and SQL Server. However, be aware that encryption can impact performance, so use it judiciously.
  • Network Configuration: Ensure that your network is properly configured for optimal performance. This includes using a high-speed network connection and minimizing network latency.

3.4 Security Best Practices

Follow these security best practices when configuring Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client:

  • Use Strong Passwords: Always use strong, complex passwords for SQL Server logins.
  • Encrypt Connections: Enable encryption to protect data transmitted between the application and SQL Server.
  • Limit Permissions: Grant users only the minimum permissions necessary to perform their tasks.
  • Regularly Update: Keep your SQL Server and Native Client installations up to date with the latest security patches.
  • Secure Storage of Connection Strings: Avoid storing connection strings in plain text. Use secure configuration files or environment variables.

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3.5 Example Configuration Scenarios

Consider these example scenarios for configuring Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client:

  • Web Application: For a web application connecting to SQL Server, use connection pooling and encrypt connections to ensure security and performance.
  • Desktop Application: For a desktop application, store the connection string in a secure configuration file and use Windows Authentication to simplify user management.
  • Reporting Services: When configuring Reporting Services to connect to SQL Server, use a dedicated service account with limited permissions and encrypt the connection.

4. Using Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client in Applications

Integrating Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client into your applications allows for efficient and secure data access. This section covers how to use the Native Client in various programming environments.

4.1 Connecting to SQL Server from .NET Applications

While ADO.NET is typically used for .NET applications, you can still use Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client through interoperability. Here’s how:

  1. Add a Reference: In your .NET project, add a reference to the System.Data.OleDb namespace.
  2. Create a Connection: Use the OleDbConnection object to connect to SQL Server.
using System.Data.OleDb;

string connectionString = "Provider=SQLNCLI11.1;Server=myServerAddress;Database=myDataBase;Uid=myUsername;Pwd=myPassword;";
OleDbConnection connection = new OleDbConnection(connectionString);

try
{
    connection.Open();
    Console.WriteLine("Connection successful!");
}
catch (Exception ex)
{
    Console.WriteLine("Error: " + ex.Message);
}
finally
{
    connection.Close();
}

4.2 Connecting to SQL Server from C++ Applications

For C++ applications, use the OLE DB or ODBC interfaces provided by the Native Client.

OLE DB Example:

#import "C:Program FilesCommon FilesSystemadomsado15.dll" no_namespace rename("EOF", "adoEOF")

int main() {
    CoInitialize(NULL);

    try {
        _ConnectionPtr pConn("ADODB.Connection");
        pConn->Provider = "SQLNCLI11.1";
        pConn->ConnectionString = "Server=myServerAddress;Database=myDataBase;Uid=myUsername;Pwd=myPassword;";
        pConn->Open("", "", "", adConnectUnspecified);

        _RecordsetPtr pRs("ADODB.Recordset");
        pRs->Open("SELECT * FROM myTable", _variant_t((IDispatch*)pConn, true), adOpenStatic, adLockReadOnly, adCmdText);

        while (!pRs->adoEOF) {
            _variant_t value = pRs->Fields->Item["columnName"]->Value;
            std::cout << (char*)_bstr_t(value) << std::endl;
            pRs->MoveNext();
        }

        pRs->Close();
        pConn->Close();
    }
    catch (_com_error &e) {
        std::cout << "Error: " << e.ErrorMessage() << std::endl;
    }

    CoUninitialize();
    return 0;
}

ODBC Example:

#include <iostream>
#include <sql.h>
#include <sqlext.h>

int main() {
    SQLHENV henv = SQL_NULL_HENV;
    SQLHDBC hdbc = SQL_NULL_HDBC;
    SQLHSTMT hstmt = SQL_NULL_HSTMT;
    SQLRETURN retcode;

    // Allocate environment handle
    retcode = SQLAllocHandle(SQL_HANDLE_ENV, SQL_NULL_HANDLE, &henv);
    SQLSetEnvAttr(henv, SQL_ATTR_ODBC_VERSION, (void*)SQL_OV_ODBC3, 0);

    // Allocate connection handle
    retcode = SQLAllocHandle(SQL_HANDLE_DBC, henv, &hdbc);

    // Set login timeout
    SQLSetConnectAttr(hdbc, SQL_LOGIN_TIMEOUT, (SQLPOINTER)5, 0);

    // Connect to data source
    SQLCHAR retstr[1024];
    retcode = SQLDriverConnect(hdbc, NULL, (SQLCHAR*)"Driver={SQL Server Native Client 11.0};Server=myServerAddress;Database=myDataBase;Uid=myUsername;Pwd=myPassword;", SQL_NTS, retstr, 1024, NULL, SQL_DRIVER_NOPROMPT);

    if (SQL_SUCCEEDED(retcode)) {
        std::cout << "Successfully connected to SQL Server" << std::endl;

        // Allocate statement handle
        retcode = SQLAllocHandle(SQL_HANDLE_STMT, hdbc, &hstmt);

        // Execute SQL statement
        retcode = SQLExecDirect(hstmt, (SQLCHAR*)"SELECT * FROM myTable", SQL_NTS);

        if (SQL_SUCCEEDED(retcode)) {
            // Bind columns and fetch data
            SQLCHAR columnName[256];
            SQLINTEGER columnLength;
            SQLBindCol(hstmt, 1, SQL_C_CHAR, columnName, sizeof(columnName), &columnLength);

            while (SQLFetch(hstmt) == SQL_SUCCESS) {
                std::cout << "Column Value: " << columnName << std::endl;
            }
        }
        else {
            std::cout << "Error executing SQL statement" << std::endl;
        }

        // Free statement handle
        SQLFreeHandle(SQL_HANDLE_STMT, hstmt);

        // Disconnect from data source
        SQLDisconnect(hdbc);
    }
    else {
        std::cout << "Error connecting to SQL Server" << std::endl;
    }

    // Free connection handle
    SQLFreeHandle(SQL_HANDLE_DBC, hdbc);

    // Free environment handle
    SQLFreeHandle(SQL_HANDLE_ENV, henv);

    return 0;
}

4.3 Connecting to SQL Server from PHP Applications

PHP applications can use the sqlsrv extension to connect to SQL Server. Ensure that you have the appropriate version of the sqlsrv extension installed that is compatible with Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client.

<?php
$serverName = "myServerAddress";
$database = "myDataBase";
$uid = "myUsername";
$pwd = "myPassword";

try {
    $conn = new PDO( "sqlsrv:Server=$serverName;Database=$database", $uid, $pwd );
    $conn->setAttribute( PDO::ATTR_ERRMODE, PDO::ERRMODE_EXCEPTION );

    $query = "SELECT * FROM myTable";
    $stmt = $conn->query( $query );

    while ( $row = $stmt->fetch( PDO::FETCH_ASSOC ) ){
        print_r( $row );
    }
}
catch( PDOException $e ) {
    echo "Error: " . $e->getMessage();
}
$conn = null;
?>

4.4 Best Practices for Application Integration

Follow these best practices when integrating Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client into your applications:

  • Use Parameterized Queries: Always use parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks.
  • Handle Exceptions: Implement proper exception handling to gracefully handle errors.
  • Close Connections: Ensure that connections are closed properly after use to release resources.
  • Use Connection Pooling: Utilize connection pooling to improve performance.
  • Test Thoroughly: Test your application thoroughly to ensure that it connects to SQL Server correctly and handles data properly.

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4.5 Example Application Scenarios

Consider these example application scenarios:

  • E-commerce Website: An e-commerce website uses PHP to connect to a SQL Server database to store product information, customer data, and order details. The sqlsrv extension is used with parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks.
  • Data Analysis Tool: A data analysis tool uses C++ to connect to a SQL Server database to retrieve and analyze large datasets. The OLE DB interface is used for high performance.
  • Windows Forms Application: A Windows Forms application uses .NET to connect to a SQL Server database to display and manage data. The OleDbConnection object is used with connection pooling to improve performance.

5. Troubleshooting Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client Issues

Even with careful configuration, you may encounter issues when using Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client. This section provides troubleshooting tips for common problems.

5.1 Common Errors and Their Solutions

  • “SQL Server Native Client 11.0 not found”: This error indicates that the Native Client is not installed correctly or is not registered in the system. Verify that the Native Client is installed and that the installation directory is in the system’s PATH environment variable.
  • “Cannot open database requested by the login. Login fails”: This error indicates an authentication problem. Check the SQL Server login credentials and ensure that the user has the necessary permissions to access the database.
  • “Connection timeout expired”: This error indicates a network connectivity issue or that the SQL Server instance is not accessible. Verify that the server address is correct, the SQL Server instance is running, and there are no firewall rules blocking the connection.
  • “Invalid connection string attribute”: This error indicates that there is an error in the connection string. Check the connection string syntax and ensure that all attributes are spelled correctly and have valid values.

5.2 Debugging Connection Problems

To debug connection problems, follow these steps:

  1. Verify the Connection String: Double-check the connection string for errors. Use a tool like UDL (Universal Data Link) to test the connection string.
  2. Check SQL Server Status: Ensure that the SQL Server instance is running and accessible. Use SQL Server Management Studio to connect to the instance.
  3. Test Network Connectivity: Use the ping command to verify network connectivity to the SQL Server instance.
  4. Check Firewall Settings: Verify that there are no firewall rules blocking the connection. Ensure that the SQL Server port (default is 1433) is open.
  5. Examine Error Logs: Check the SQL Server error logs for detailed error messages. The logs can provide valuable information about the cause of the problem.

5.3 Resolving Performance Issues

If you are experiencing performance issues, consider the following:

  • Optimize Queries: Use SQL Server Profiler to identify slow-running queries. Optimize the queries by adding indexes, rewriting the query logic, or using query hints.
  • Tune SQL Server: Tune the SQL Server instance by adjusting memory settings, optimizing disk I/O, and configuring the server for optimal performance.
  • Use Connection Pooling: Ensure that connection pooling is enabled and properly configured.
  • Monitor Performance: Use Performance Monitor to monitor the performance of the SQL Server instance and identify bottlenecks.

5.4 Using Diagnostic Tools

Several diagnostic tools can help you troubleshoot issues with Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client:

  • SQL Server Profiler: Captures events occurring in SQL Server, such as T-SQL statements, stored procedure executions, and login attempts.
  • Performance Monitor: Monitors the performance of SQL Server and the operating system.
  • SQL Server Management Studio: Provides a graphical interface for managing SQL Server instances, including tools for troubleshooting and performance tuning.
  • ODBC Data Source Administrator: Tests and configures ODBC data sources.

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5.5 Seeking Help from Online Resources

If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, seek help from online resources:

  • Microsoft Documentation: Consult the official Microsoft documentation for Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client.
  • Stack Overflow: Search for solutions on Stack Overflow. Many developers have encountered similar issues and shared their solutions.
  • Microsoft Forums: Post your question on the Microsoft SQL Server forums.
  • Community Forums: Participate in community forums dedicated to SQL Server.

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7. Future Trends in SQL Server Connectivity

The landscape of SQL Server connectivity is continuously evolving. Staying informed about future trends helps you prepare for changes and leverage new technologies.

7.1 Evolution of Data Access Technologies

Data access technologies are evolving to meet the demands of modern applications. Some of the key trends include:

  • Cloud-Native Connectivity: Cloud-native connectivity solutions are designed to work seamlessly with cloud-based SQL Server instances.
  • Driverless Connections: Driverless connections eliminate the need for client-side drivers, simplifying deployment and management.
  • APIs: APIs are becoming increasingly popular for accessing SQL Server databases. APIs provide a standardized way to interact with SQL Server, making it easier to integrate with other systems.

7.2 Impact of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is having a significant impact on SQL Server connectivity. Cloud-based SQL Server instances require different connectivity solutions than on-premises instances. Cloud-native connectivity solutions are designed to work seamlessly with cloud-based SQL Server instances.

7.3 Role of New SQL Server Features

New SQL Server features, such as Always On Availability Groups and In-Memory OLTP, are influencing the way applications connect to SQL Server. These features require new connectivity solutions that can take advantage of their capabilities.

7.4 Security Enhancements

Security enhancements are driving changes in SQL Server connectivity. New security features, such as Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) and Always Encrypted, require connectivity solutions that support these features.

7.5 Performance Optimizations

Performance optimizations are also driving changes in SQL Server connectivity. New connectivity solutions are designed to provide better performance than older solutions. For example, the ODBC Driver 17 for SQL Server offers better performance than the SQL Server Native Client.

7.6 The Move Away from Native Client

Microsoft has been gradually moving away from the SQL Server Native Client in favor of newer, more versatile drivers like the ODBC Driver for SQL Server and the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server (MSOLEDBSQL). While SQL Native Client remains functional, it is not recommended for new projects. Organizations are encouraged to migrate to these updated drivers for enhanced features, security, and compatibility with the latest SQL Server versions.

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7.7 Staying Updated with Microsoft’s Recommendations

Staying updated with Microsoft’s recommendations is crucial for ensuring that you are using the best connectivity solutions for your SQL Server environment. Microsoft regularly releases updates and new drivers that offer improved performance, security, and compatibility.

By following Microsoft’s recommendations, you can ensure that your applications are using the most efficient and secure methods for connecting to SQL Server.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client

This section addresses some frequently asked questions about Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client.

8.1 Is Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client still supported?

Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client is supported, but it is not recommended for new application development. Microsoft encourages the use of newer drivers like the ODBC Driver for SQL Server and the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server (MSOLEDBSQL).

8.2 Where can I download Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client?

You can download Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client from the Microsoft Download Center as part of the SQL Server 2012 Feature Pack.

8.3 How do I install Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client?

To install Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client, download the sqlncli.msi file from the Microsoft Download Center and run the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

8.4 What is the difference between OLE DB and ODBC?

OLE DB (Object Linking and Embedding Database) and ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) are both interfaces for accessing databases. OLE DB is a COM-based interface, while ODBC is a C-based interface. Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client supports both interfaces.

8.5 How do I configure an ODBC data source using Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client?

To configure an ODBC data source, open the ODBC Data Source Administrator, select the “System DSN” tab, click “Add”, choose “SQL Server Native Client 11.0” from the list of drivers, and follow the prompts to configure the data source.

8.6 How do I connect to SQL Server from a .NET application using Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client?

You can connect to SQL Server from a .NET application using the System.Data.OleDb namespace. Create an OleDbConnection object and specify the connection string.

8.7 What are some common errors when using Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Native Client?

Some common errors include “SQL Server Native Client 11.0 not found

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