Connection to SQL database at Client Sites

[sbowman]

I'm beginning a project to move an Access App to .NET. The project
manager is saying that we are web hosting the .net app, but each
client site will only connect to their own sql server. Is this even
possible? Isn't there a better way to do this? We have hundreds of
clients that use our software at their sites and they all have their
own SQL server w/ System DSN that the Access app connects to.

Also, can anyone point me to some reference books I should buy? I'm a
beginner with .NET.

Thanks,
Shelley

 

[Cowboy \(Gregory A. Beamer\)]

I'm beginning a project to move an Access App to .NET. The project
manager is saying that we are web hosting the .net app, but each
client site will only connect to their own sql server. Is this even
possible? Isn't there a better way to do this? We have hundreds of
clients that use our software at their sites and they all have their
own SQL server w/ System DSN that the Access app connects to.

With .NET, you can set up the connection string in the config file. If this
is a web app, create an installer that allows them to pick a SQL Server to
use. With desktop apps, you have to create a method for people at the
company to embed their connection strings into the install. This involves a
custom installer project. There are examples on the MSDN site. You will want
to give them the abilty to encrypt the connection strings on install.

These concepts are probably pretty complex sounding right now, but there are
plenty of examples in the Quickstarts that install with .NET, as well as on
the MSDN site (msdn.microsoft.com). It will take a bit of a learning curve,
but you will make it through.

Also, can anyone point me to some reference books I should buy? I'm a
beginner with .NET.

For books, aim for the beginner's series from Wrox or Step-By-Step from
Microsoft Press. Both are good, easy resources for people who are just
starting out.

--
Gregory A. Beamer
MVP; MCP: +I, SE, SD, DBA
http://gregorybeamer.spaces.live.com
Co-author: Microsoft Expression Web Bible (upcoming)

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[sbowman]

Thank you! Very helpful

Shelley