Python SQL Server

This tutorial series shows you how to work with the SQL Server from Python using the pymssql package.

Python Drivers for SQL Server #

To connect to the SQL Server from Python, you need a driver. There are some Python SQL Server drivers available.

Here are the drivers recommended by Microsoft:

  • pyodbc – provides an interface for connecting to SQL Server databases via ODBC interface, allowing you to execute SQL queries seamlessly.
  • pymssql – is a Python library designed for connecting to SQL Server databases and managing data efficiently.

We’ll use the pymssql package to connect to the SQL Server from Python.

The pymssql Package Features #

The following highlights some features of the pymssql package:

  • Python 3: Utilize the advantage of the latest features and improvements in Python 3.
  • Unicode: Enable handling international characters.
  • Works across popular operating systems (OS): Support the most popular OSes including Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  • Written in Cython for performance: Benefit from faster execution and optimized performance.
  • Supports stored procedures: Call SQL Server’s stored procedures with return values or output parameters.
  • Supports bulk copy: Quickly and efficiently transfer large amounts of data to SQL Server.
  • Can be used to connect to SQL Server on Azure: Seamlessly integrate with Microsoft’s cloud platform for scalable and reliable database solutions.

Section 1. Getting Started #

Section 2. Inserting Data #

  • Insert data into a table – show you how to insert data into a table in SQL Server from Python
  • Import a CSV file into a table – learn how to develop a Python program that reads data from a CSV file and imports it into a table in the SQL Server.
  • Bulk Copy – discover how to quickly load data into an SQL Server table using the bulk copy function.

Section 3. Updating Data #

Section 4. Querying Data #

  • Select data from a table – Guide you on how to select one or more rows from a table in Python
  • Pagination – Show you how to break up a large result set into smaller chunks (pages) using FETCH and OFFSET clauses.

Section 5. Deleting Data #

Section 6. Handling Transactions #

Section 7. Calling Stored Procedures #

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