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  3. Using ODBC

Using ODBC

This page describes in detail how to store your vital user account information in an ODBC data source. For more detailed information on what each option of the ODBC settings is for, please view the General page.

Understanding ODBC #

ODBC stands for Open Database Connectivity, and is designed to simplify how applications communicate with databases. An ODBC connection involves three parts: the ODBC enabled application (Ability Mail Server), an ODBC driver and an actual database (almost any database technology is supported). Through ODBC, Ability Mail Server can be plugged into any database, new or old.

Uses of ODBC #

Because of the flexibility of ODBC, Ability Mail Server's mail accounts can be managed through a database. This creates many exciting possibilities, including integration of the mail server with web scripts and other applications. Using scripting languages such as ASP.Net, you can place scripts on your website which will be able to automatically add new users into the mail server. You could also manage the user list using your favorite database access software or use the database to query the existence of mail accounts.

Setting Up ODBC #

To setup ODBC you need to follow the steps:

  1. Prepare - To setup ODBC you need to first have an understanding of the database you are connecting to. This involves finding out any login information you may need and also installing any ODBC driver that is required.
  2. Create a Data Source - Once you have obtained any information required for connection, you can then create an ODBC data source on the computer. This is usually done by accessing the Control Panel, selecting Administrative Tools and opening the Data Sources (ODBC) application.
  3. Configure Ability Mail Server - Once the data source is created, you then can set up Ability Mail Server. The most difficult part of configuration is setting up the 'Connect String'. This usually is the form of 'DSN=;DATABASE=;UID=;PWD='. If there are any fields that are not needed (e.g. you do not need to login) then you can remove these from the connect string.
  4. Create a Table - Once you have set up ODBC, you may then need to create a table. Simply clicking 'Create Table' will test the ODBC connection, as well as creating a table.

Data Stored by ODBC #

The information stored in the ODBC data source is only equivalent to what normally goes into the users.ini file. This is the minimal information required to configure a user but still permits full user control using just the ODBC data source. All other user data is stored in each user's accounts directory.

See Also: General.