OLE DB, a set of interfaces for data access, is Microsoft's component database architecture which provides universal data integration over an enterprise's network -- from mainframe to desktop -- regardless of the data type. Microsoft's Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) industry-standard data access interface continues to provide a unified way to access relational data as part of the OLE DB specification.

Test tools useful when developing using OLE DB.

Microsoft SQL Server is a scalable, high-performance database management system designed specifically for distributed client/server computing. A comprehensive distributed management framework lets you centrally manage all the database servers in your organization. With advanced Windows-based management tools and powerful server-based job scheduling, you can control multiple servers and automate remote operations in a distributed environment. Using the SQL Server component of the Platform SDK, you can access SQL Server features such as data replication, management tools, and an open system architecture to develop effective and unique information solutions.

Sample source code for Microsoft SQL Server.

Test tools useful when developing for SQL Server.

Many new features have been added to ODBC 3.0, including a faster and more flexible way to bind to multiple sets of data, capability for better error diagnostics and the ability to process bulk operations.