dotConnect for SQL Server, formerly known as SQLDirect .NET, is an enhanced data provider for SQL Server that builds on ADO.NET technology and SqlClient to present a complete solution for developing SQL Server-based database applications. As part of the Devart database application development framework, dotConnect for SQL Server offers both high performance native connectivity to SQL Server and a number of innovative development tools and technologies. dotConnect for SQL Server introduces new approaches for designing application architecture, boosts productivity, and leverages database application implementation.

dotConnect for SQL Server is a scalable data access solution developed with wide adaptability in mind. It can be successfully used in WinForms, ASP.NET, two-tier, multi-tier applications, within the ASP.NET Provider Model and so on. Depending on the edition you choose, dotConnect for SQL Server can be used as a powerful ADO.NET data provider, or an effective application development framework.

dotConnect for SQL Server is actively developed and supported by Devart. If you have questions about dotConnect for SQL Server, email the developers at [email protected] or visit dotConnect for SQL Server online at http://www.devart.com/dotconnect/sqlserver/.

Advantages of dotConnect for SQL Server

Wide Coverage of SQL Server Features

By providing access to the most advanced database functionality, dotConnect for SQL Server allows developers to harness the full capabilities of the SQL Server and optimize their database applications. dotConnect for SQL Server stands out as the set of components with the widest support of SQL Server functionality. Get a full list of supported SQL Server features in the Features topic.

Optimized Code

The goal of dotConnect for SQL Server is to enable developers to write efficient and flexible database applications. The dotConnect for SQL Server assemblies are implemented using optimized code and advanced data access algorithms. Components undergo comprehensive performance tests and are designed to help you write thin and efficient product data access layers.

Database Application Development Extensions

dotConnect for SQL Server has rich set of design time tools that leverage the development process greatly. Particularly, there are convenient design time component editors, wizards and managers for typed SQL Server-specific components, toolset for live data binding, cross-form components cooperation, and much more. dotConnect for SQL Server integrates tightly with Visual Studio 2008 - 2023 and Delphi.

Both Connected and Disconnected Models

dotConnect for SQL Server combines connected and disconnected data access models in single SqlDataTable component, which allows you to design more flexible application architecture and use full power of data binding.

Comprehensive Support for ADO.NET Technology Features

dotConnect for SQL Server supports new ADO.NET features and technologies as soon as they are released. This includes base-class-based provider model, provider factories, connection string builder, metadata schemas, asynchronous commands, pooling enhancements, batch update support, provider-specific types, server enumeration, database change notification support and so on. dotConnect for SQL Server will continue supporting the newest standards and innovations of the .NET Framework.

Development and Support

dotConnect for SQL Server is a SQL Server connectivity solution that is actively developed and supported. dotConnect for SQL Server comes with full documentation, demo projects, and fast (usually within one business day) technical support by the dotConnect for SQL Server development team. Find out more about how to get help or submit feedback and suggestions in the Getting Support topic.

A description of the dotConnect for SQL Server components is provided in the Class and Component List.

Key features

• Direct access to SQL Server within 100% managed code
• High performance
• Operates in both connected and disconnected models
• Powerful SqlDataTable component as all-in-one table data access solution
• Auxiliary components for SQL scripts and bulk data transfer
• Extra data binding capabilities
• Cross-form components cooperation
• Ability of monitoring query execution
• Easy to deploy
• Supports the latest versions of SQL Server
• All SQL Server data types support
• Licensed royalty-free per developer, per team, or per site

For the detailed list of dotConnect for SQL Server features refer to the Features topic.

Editions

dotConnect for SQL Server is available in two editions: Professional and Standard.

• The Standard Edition represents a fully-featured ADO.NET data provider with design time support and advanced classes.
• The Professional Edition adds more classes, tools, technologies, and integration capabilities.

Also Professional Edition is offered for evaluation. This version is fully working during 30 days period.

Feature	Professional	Standard
Native data types classes and structures	+	+
SqlScript class	+	+
SqlMonitor class	+	+
SqlDataTable class	+
SqlDataSet class	+
SqlLoader class	+
DataLink class	+
SqlDataSource component for web applications	+
Design-time features, including component editors and property editors	+	+
Advanced Visual Studio integration	+	+
ASP.NET 2.0 providers support	+
DataSet Manager and Editor	+
DataSet Wizard	+
Migration Wizard	+	+
DBMonitor support	+