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Which interface allows application programs to access and process SQL databases in a DBMS-independent manner (vendor-neutral connectivity)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: ODBC

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Applications often need a common API to connect to multiple DBMSs without rewriting database-specific code. Such APIs provide a standard set of calls while drivers handle vendor specifics.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are looking for a DBMS-agnostic, SQL-oriented connectivity interface.
  • Options include Microsoft technologies and a generic standard.


Concept / Approach:
ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) is a widely adopted, vendor-neutral API that allows applications to access different DBMSs via ODBC drivers. The application uses standard function calls; the driver translates them into the DBMS’s protocol.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify which option is the cross-vendor standard: ODBC.Differentiate others: OLE DB and ADO are Microsoft data access technologies but are not the canonical cross-vendor SQL API like ODBC.Discard non-existent or irrelevant acronyms (e.g., JPCD).


Verification / Alternative check:
ODBC drivers exist for Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, DB2, and many others, confirming its DBMS-independent design.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
OLE DB is a COM-based data access technology targeting various data sources, not only SQL databases.
ADO is an object model that can use OLE DB providers; it is not the core vendor-neutral driver layer.
JPCD is not a standard database API.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing higher-level Microsoft technologies (ADO/OLE DB) with the lower-level cross-vendor standard ODBC.



Final Answer:
ODBC

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