Microsoft SQL Server Native Client 11.0 is a crucial component for connecting applications to SQL Server databases. While it’s not shipped with the latest SQL Server versions (2022 and later) or SQL Server Management Studio 19 and later, understanding how to obtain and install it remains relevant, especially when dealing with older systems or specific compatibility requirements. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server Native Client 11.0, focusing on how to download and install it effectively.
Understanding SQL Server Native Client 11.0
SQL Server Native Client 11.0 (often referred to as SQLNCLI11) is a standalone library that contains both the SQL Server OLE DB provider and the SQL Server ODBC driver in one native dynamic-link library (DLL). It’s designed to support native code APIs (ODBC, OLE DB) for connecting to Microsoft SQL Server. It was notably included with SQL Server 2012 through SQL Server 2019 as part of the database engine. However, it’s important to note that Microsoft recommends using newer drivers for new application development, such as the ODBC Driver for SQL Server or the Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server (MSOLEDBSQL). Despite this recommendation, SQL Server Native Client 11.0 might still be necessary for compatibility with existing applications.
Downloading SQL Server Native Client 11.0
Although not directly available as a standalone “Sql Server Native Client 11.0 Download” on the main Microsoft download center, you can obtain it through the Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Feature Pack. This feature pack contains the sqlncli.msi installer, which is the key to installing SQL Server Native Client 11.0.
To download SQL Server Native Client 11.0, follow these steps:
- Navigate to the Microsoft Download Center: Go to the official Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Feature Pack download page.
- Locate
sqlncli.msi: On the Feature Pack page, you will likely find a list of downloadable files. Look for a file namedsqlncli.msi. This is the installer for SQL Server Native Client 11.0. - Select the appropriate architecture: Choose the
sqlncli.msipackage that matches your operating system’s architecture (x86 for 32-bit, x64 for 64-bit, or Itanium if needed). - Download the installer: Click the “Download” button next to the selected
sqlncli.msifile and save it to your computer.
If you have an older SQL Server version installed (earlier than SQL Server 2012) alongside SQL Server Native Client 11.0, both versions will coexist without conflict, as SQL Server Native Client 11.0 is designed for side-by-side installation with previous versions.
Installing SQL Server Native Client 11.0
Once you have downloaded the sqlncli.msi installer, you can proceed with the installation.
- Run the installer: Double-click the
sqlncli.msifile to launch the installation wizard. - Follow the on-screen instructions: The installation wizard will guide you through the process. Typically, the default options are sufficient for most users.
- Complete the installation: Once the installation is complete, SQL Server Native Client 11.0 will be installed on your system.
By default, the installation process places the core SQL Server Native Client files (sqlncli11.dll, sqlnclir11.rll, and s11ch_sqlncli.chm) in the %SYSTEMROOT%system32 directory. Registry settings for both the OLE DB provider and the ODBC driver are automatically configured during installation.
For developers, the header and library files (sqlncli.h and sqlncli11.lib) are installed in %PROGRAMFILES%Microsoft SQL Server110SDK. This is essential for compiling applications that utilize SQL Server Native Client.
Installing SDK Components
By default, sqlncli.msi only installs the client components, which are necessary for running applications built with SQL Server Native Client. To also install the SDK components (header and library files), you need to use the command line and specify the ADDLOCAL=ALL option.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following command:
msiexec /i sqlncli.msi ADDLOCAL=ALLOptionally, you can also include APPGUID to specify your product code, which is useful for managing dependencies and uninstalling.
msiexec /i sqlncli.msi ADDLOCAL=ALL APPGUID={YourProductCode}Silent Installation
For automated deployments or silent installations, you can use command-line options like /passive, /qn, /qb, or /qr with msiexec. In silent mode, you must explicitly accept the license terms by including IACCEPTSQLNCLILICENSETERMS=YES in capital letters.
Example of a silent installation command:
msiexec /i sqlncli.msi /qn IACCEPTSQLNCLILICENSETERMS=YESUninstalling SQL Server Native Client 11.0
Before uninstalling SQL Server Native Client 11.0, it’s crucial to ensure that no applications depend on it. Applications like SQL Server itself and SQL Server tools might rely on SQL Server Native Client. Uninstalling it prematurely can lead to application malfunctions.
To warn users about dependencies, use the APPGUID install option during your application’s installation. This helps the system identify dependencies and prevent accidental uninstalls that could break dependent software.
Conclusion
Downloading and installing SQL Server Native Client 11.0 is primarily done through the Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Feature Pack. While newer drivers are recommended for new development, SQL Server Native Client 11.0 remains important for maintaining compatibility with older applications and systems. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully download and install SQL Server Native Client 11.0 and ensure your applications can connect to SQL Server databases effectively. Remember to consider the installation options for SDK components and silent installations as needed for your specific environment.
