Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server is the essential runtime support you need to connect applications like Microsoft Excel to SQL Server databases using native-code APIs. If you’re looking to leverage the power of SQL Server data within Excel, especially with the latest SQL Server features, the Microsoft ODBC Driver is the perfect solution.
Why Choose Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server for Excel?
For Excel users aiming to connect to SQL Server, the Microsoft ODBC Driver offers several key advantages:
- Seamless Data Integration: ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) is a standard API that allows Excel to communicate directly with SQL Server. This driver acts as the translator, ensuring smooth and efficient data transfer.
- Optimized Performance: Built by Microsoft, this driver is specifically designed for SQL Server, guaranteeing optimal performance and reliability when accessing your database from Excel.
- Access to Latest Features: Using the latest ODBC Driver versions, like version 18, enables Excel to take full advantage of new SQL Server functionalities, ensuring compatibility and access to advanced features.
- Enhanced Security: The driver incorporates Microsoft Active Directory Authentication Library (ADAL.dll) from version 17.4.2 onwards, providing robust and modern authentication methods for secure data access from Excel.
- Regular Updates and Support: Microsoft provides ongoing updates and support for the ODBC Driver, ensuring compatibility with the latest versions of SQL Server and Excel, and addressing any potential issues.
Choosing the right ODBC driver is crucial for a stable and performant connection between Excel and SQL Server. The Microsoft ODBC Driver is the recommended and most reliable option.
Downloading the Right ODBC Driver for Excel
Microsoft offers different versions of the ODBC Driver. Version 18 is the latest and generally recommended for new applications and leveraging the newest SQL Server features with Excel. Version 17 is also available for compatibility with older systems.
Latest Recommended Version: Microsoft ODBC Driver 18 for SQL Server
Version 18.5.1.1 is the most current general availability (GA) version. If you have an older version 18 driver installed, this will upgrade it. It can also be installed alongside older version 17 drivers.
Here are the download links for Windows:
Download the 64-bit ODBC Driver for Excel to connect to SQL Server databases.
Download the 32-bit ODBC Driver for Excel on 32-bit Windows systems to enable SQL Server data connections.
Download the ARM64 ODBC Driver for Excel on ARM64 Windows machines for efficient SQL Server data access.
Note: For 64-bit operating systems, the x64 installer will install both 64-bit and 32-bit drivers, which is often recommended for compatibility with both 64-bit and 32-bit applications, including different versions of Excel.
Version Information:
- Release Number: 18.5.1.1
- Released: March 17, 2025
This version supports multiple languages, ensuring accessibility for users worldwide.
Older Versions: Microsoft ODBC Driver 17 for SQL Server
Version 17.10.6 is the latest GA version in the 17.x series. If you are using older systems or have specific compatibility requirements, version 17 remains a viable option.
Download links for Windows version 17 are below:
Download the 64-bit ODBC Driver version 17 for Excel to connect to SQL Server on older systems.
Download the 32-bit ODBC Driver version 17 for Excel on older 32-bit Windows installations.
Version Information:
- Release Number: 17.10.6.1
- Released: April 9, 2024
Version 17 also offers multilingual support.
Downloads for Linux and macOS
For users running Excel on Linux or macOS, Microsoft also provides ODBC drivers. Installation instructions and packages are available via these links:
These links provide detailed steps and package manager commands for easy installation on your respective operating systems.
Connecting Excel to SQL Server using the ODBC Driver
Once you have downloaded and installed the appropriate Microsoft ODBC Driver, connecting Excel to your SQL Server database is straightforward. Typically, you would follow these general steps within Excel:
- Open Excel and go to the “Data” tab.
- Select “Get Data” (or “From Other Sources” in older versions).
- Choose “From ODBC”.
- In the “From ODBC” dialog, select the “Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server” from the list of data sources.
- Enter your SQL Server connection details (server name, database name, authentication method, etc.).
- Select the data you want to import into Excel.
Detailed instructions may vary slightly depending on your Excel version, but these steps outline the general process of using the ODBC driver to establish a connection and import data.
Conclusion
The Microsoft ODBC Driver for SQL Server is the ideal choice for Excel users who need to connect to SQL Server databases. By downloading and installing the latest version, you ensure optimal performance, security, and access to the newest SQL Server features within your Excel spreadsheets. Start leveraging the power of your SQL Server data in Excel today by downloading the right ODBC driver for your system.
