In Open Database Connectivity (ODBC), does the Driver Manager accept application ODBC API calls and route the requests to the appropriate driver, effectively submitting the SQL to the targeted data source type?

Introduction / Context:
The Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) programming model separates an application from vendor-specific database details. The component that sits between your program and the specific database driver is the ODBC Driver Manager. This question checks whether you understand that the Driver Manager processes ODBC requests and forwards them to the correct driver so that SQL reaches the intended data source.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The application issues standard ODBC API calls such as SQLConnect, SQLPrepare, SQLExecute, and SQLFetch.
• An ODBC data source has been configured (User DSN, System DSN, or File DSN) and references a specific ODBC driver.
• The Driver Manager is present on the client machine and is responsible for driver loading and routing.

Concept / Approach:
ODBC abstracts database access through a common set of functions. The Driver Manager validates arguments, handles basic diagnostics, loads the correct vendor driver for the DSN, and then dispatches calls to that driver. The driver translates generic ODBC requests and SQL dialect into the wire protocol and SQL flavor required by the target DBMS. Thus, the Driver Manager does not execute SQL itself; rather, it “processes” requests at the API level and forwards them to the driver that submits statements to the database.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Trace ODBC activity using an ODBC trace facility: you will see the Driver Manager orchestrating call dispatch to a vendor driver which then communicates with the DBMS.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Applies only to File DSNs: incorrect; routing applies to all DSN types.
• Windows only: ODBC exists on multiple platforms; behavior is the same.
• “Cannot be determined”: the Driver Manager’s role is defined regardless of DBMS.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the Driver Manager with the vendor driver; assuming the Driver Manager transforms SQL dialects (that is the driver’s job, not the manager’s).

Final Answer:
Correct