> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.pads4.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connecting a .NET framework data provider

The **.NET framework provider** enables **high-performance connections** to **MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server**, and other databases. It reduces overhead while maintaining full functionality.

***

## **Prerequisites**

* Install the **.NET driver** for your database before proceeding.
* Ensure your database is **accessible** from the **PADS4 Data Server** or individual Viewers.

***

## **Steps to Connect a Database via .NET Framework**

### **1. Start the Data Provider Wizard**

* Follow the steps in **Adding a Data Provider** or **Editing a Data Provider**.
* Choose **.NET Framework** as the provider type.

### **2. Configure .NET Connection Settings**

* Select the **.NET Data Provider** from the installed providers list.
  * If your provider is missing, ensure the correct **.NET driver** is installed.
* Enter the **Connection String** to connect to your database.
  * Refer to your **.NET provider documentation** or check **[www.connectionstrings.com](http://www.connectionstrings.com)** for examples.
* Secure the Connection String (Optional)
  * Use **"Optional Password"** to hide the connection string when editing.

**Example Connection String for MySQL:**

```
Server=192.168.1.10;Port=3306;Database=mysampledb;Uid=root;Pwd=mypassword;pooling=false;
```

### **3. Enter SQL Query to Retrieve Data**

* Define an **SQL statement** specifying the data to fetch.

**Example Query to Select All Data:**

```sql theme={null}
SELECT * FROM MyTable
```

* Customize the query based on filters, sorting, or joins.

### **4. Test the Connection**

* Click **Test** to verify the connection.

### **5. Complete the Wizard**

* Click **Next** to proceed.
* Finish the wizard as described in **Adding a Data Provider**.

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## **Important Considerations**

* **If Using PADS4 Data Server:**
  * Ensure the **.NET driver is installed** on the **server**.
  * The **database must be accessible** from the **PADS4 Data Server's network**.

* **If Not Using PADS4 Data Server:**
  * Install the **.NET driver** on **all PADS4 Viewers** and **PADS4 Designer** machines.
  * Verify that **each Viewer** can access the **database** directly.

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## **Troubleshooting**

* **Database connection fails?**
  * Check **firewall settings** and **database credentials**.
  * Ensure **network access** to the **database server**.
  * Verify that the **.NET driver** is **installed correctly**.

* **Query returns no data?**
  * Run the SQL **query manually** in a database tool to check for errors.
  * Verify that the **table and column names** are correct.

***

Your database is now connected. If you need advanced filtering, sorting, or real-time updates, explore **Data Provider options** in PADS4.