This article series will show you how to connect from Oracle databases to other database systems using the Oracle ODBC Gateway.
Examples are connnections from Oracle database to MS SQL Server, MySQL, Informix.
Prerequistes
My Examples are based on Linux Systems and Oracle 12c/19c (newer versions or 11g also work).
You need:
- Oracle Home with Database Sofware
- Running Listener
- UnixODBC installed, at least Version 2.3.0
- Special ODBC Driver for the destination Database
Normally, the Oracle ODBC Gateway runs on a server where your Oracle Database is running. But you also may use a separate Server.
Differences to other Oracle Gateways
Oracle also offers other Gatways, e.g. Database Gateway for APPC, Database Gateway for DRDA, Database Gateway for Informix, Database Gateway for SQLServer, Database Gateway for Sybase and Database Gateway for Teradata.
The main differences to Gateway to ODBC are:
- Licensing: the other Gateways usually cost additional fees (see below)
- Installation: Gateway to ODBC is part of a normal Oracle Home, the other Gateways require separate installation
- Configuration: the other Gateways are simpler to configure. The ODBC Gateway takes more steps (and config files) to configure.
Gateway Licensing
Oracle Gateway to ODBC can be used without additional license, if you have a database license. Also, the Gateway can be installed on a separate machine without additional license.
Oracle also offers other Gateways, e.g. Database Gateway for APPC, Database Gateway for DRDA, Database Gateway for Informix, Database Gateway for SQLServer, Database Gateway for Sybase and Database Gateway for Teradata. These Gateways require separate licenses. (Please check your licensing conditions with Oracle).
Read more
First step to install and configure your ODBC Gateway: Unix ODBC Installation