SQL Native Client and network disconnects

Question

Does the SQL Native Client provide support for maintaining a persistent connection over the network at the driver level if there is a momentary network disconnect like a 999 error? Our applications are written in PowerBuilder (versions 12.5 and 6.5) and support SQL Server 2005 - 2014 and Express Edition - Enterprise Edition.

I read about the KeepAlive property at Link , https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms190771(v=sql.120).aspx , and http://www.databaseskill.com/2357386/ . Would this help with this situation?

I also looked at the Microsoft site https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms130822(v=sql.120).aspx which lists all the SQL Native Client connection string properties. I found Failover_Partner, but this is for database mirroring, and I found MultiSubnetFailover, but this is for Always On Availability Groups (AG).

I also looked at http://www.connectionstrings.com/sql-server/.

Thank you! Mike Petrak

Answer 1

If you have connection pooling enabled in the connection string for the SQL Server Native Client, then connections are maintained to the SQL Server.

Check this MSDN blog for some technical details about how you can confirm if connections are being maintained.

Also, take a look at this MSDN page for Connection String properties, and how to ensure connection pooling is enabled.