What Is an ODBC Driver?

Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) is a standard Application Programming Interface (API) that allows external applications such as Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or Tableau and programming languages like PHP, Python, etc., to access data from a common database or cloud application. ODBC provides for maximum interoperability — a single application independent of any data store can access data through an ODBC driver that serves as an interface between an application and a data source. This connector is easy to install and configure.

ODBC Driver Overview

An ODBC driver enables applications and programming languages to access data in database management systems through the Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) interface using the SQL language. The ODBC API is independent of any DBMS, programming language, and operating system. Developers of DBMS-specific drivers implement the ODBC API functions. The driver acts as an interface between an application and a data source, which can be anything like a file, a relational or non-relational database, or a cloud application. A separate driver is required for each data source to be accessed.

The standard is based on the Call-Level Interface (CLI) specifications from Open Group and ISO/IEC for database APIs and uses SQL as the database access language. ODBC drivers are distributed as dynamic-link libraries for Windows and shared objects for Linux/Unix.

ODBC Driver

ODBC Driver History

The ODBC standard was created by Microsoft in 1992 for SQL databases access unification. Following its success, the company introduced OLE DB, which is a more advanced standard for accessing data sources representing data in the form of tables. It was assumed that the ODBC connectors will be replaced by OLE DB, which would become the more common data access standard. Then, Microsoft released a more object-oriented standard — ADO, which was expected to become more popular than OLE DB. Despite all these, the ODBC standard remains the most popular data access standard today. It is a cross-platform standard and is widely supported by proprietary and open-source database systems such as Oracle and IBM.

How Does an ODBC Driver Work?

How Does an ODBC Driver Work?

An ODBC driver works by implementing the ODBC API, which allows applications to communicate with various databases. When an application sends a request to the ODBC driver, the driver translates it into a format that the specific database can understand. The driver then communicates with the database, retrieves the results, and returns them to the application.

Which Databases Are Supported by Devart ODBC Drivers?

Devart provides ODBC drivers that support many databases, including popular options like Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, and more. Our drivers offer compatibility and connectivity solutions for diverse database environments.

ODBC Data Connectors

Fast and unified access to databases

We offer you optimal data access by means of ODBC and native database client libraries. However, you can avoid using client libraries, since our ODBC drivers are able to connect via the native protocol directly without using client software at all.

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Direct access to data

What Are the Advantages of Using Devart ODBC Drivers?

Devart ODBC drivers offer a robust and feature-rich solution for connecting applications to various databases, empowering developers with the tools they need to build efficient and reliable database applications. There are several advantages of using our ODBC drivers:

Broad database support

Broad database support

Devart ODBC Drivers are designed to provide extensive compatibility with a wide range of database systems. Whether you're working with popular databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, Oracle, or niche systems, Devart ODBC Drivers offer the flexibility you need.

Reliability and stability

Reliability and stability

Devart is known for its commitment to quality. Their ODBC Drivers undergo rigorous testing to ensure stability and dependable performance. You can trust these drivers to maintain a stable connection to your database, minimizing downtime and data loss.

High performance

High performance

Performance is crucial in database connectivity, and Devart ODBC Drivers excel in this regard. They are optimized to deliver exceptional speed and efficiency, ensuring that your applications perform at their best, even with large datasets and complex queries.

Comprehensive technical support.

Comprehensive technical support

Devart provides extensive technical support to assist users in resolving any issues or challenges they may encounter. This includes documentation, online resources, and responsive customer support to ensure a smooth and trouble-free experience.

Advanced functionality

Advanced functionality

Devart ODBC Drivers offer advanced functionality, enabling you to leverage powerful database features and capabilities. This includes support for stored procedures, data encryption, and other essential functions that enhance your application's capabilities.

Verified Compatibility With Third-Party Data Tools

Devart ODBC drivers are verified to be compatible with leading analytics and reporting tools, various IDEs, and programming languages. Get fast and secure access to your data in any application using our ODBC Drivers!

Business Intelligence Analytics Software

Business Intelligence & Analytics Software

Database Management Software

Database Management Software