Microsoft ODBC Driver 18 for SQL Server
v18.7.1.1FreeReleased 7 Sept 2026
The driver Python, PHP, Excel and reporting tools use to connect to SQL Server. By Microsoft Corporation
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
By the ToolsBharat teamUpdated 7 Sept 2026How we check
Quick answer
Microsoft ODBC Driver 18 for SQL Server is free software for Windows, macOS and Linux from Microsoft Corporation. The driver Python, PHP, Excel and reporting tools use to connect to SQL Server. Download it only from learn.microsoft.com. The latest version we track is 18.7.1.1 (7 Sept 2026). ToolsBharat links straight to the publisher's own download page, with no bundled offers.
- Latest version:
- 18.7.1.1 (7 Sept 2026)
- Publisher:
- Microsoft Corporation
- Official site:
- learn.microsoft.com
- Licence:
- Free — Proprietary — free
- Requirements:
- Windows 10 / 11, Windows Server, Linux, macOS
Our verdict
Needed when pyodbc, PHP's sqlsrv, Power BI, Excel or a business app shows 'Data source name not found' or asks for 'ODBC Driver 18 for SQL Server'. Use the x64 installer on 64-bit Windows (it installs both 64-bit and 32-bit drivers), or ARM64 on Arm PCs. Version 18.7 no longer needs the Visual C++ Redistributable preinstalled. Driver 18 installs side by side with Driver 17, which is still offered for older apps.
Key features
- Windows installers for x64, x86 and ARM64
- x64/ARM64 installers include the 32-bit driver too
- Linux and macOS packages
- Side-by-side with ODBC Driver 17
Pros
- Pro: Official and free
- Pro: Supports SQL Server, Azure SQL and Fabric
- Pro: Clear release notes
Cons
- Con: Driver 18 encrypts by default, which can break old connection strings
- Con: Linux/macOS install via package managers
What's new in 18.7.1.1
See what changed in 18.7.1.1 in the official release notes
Version history
Version 18.7.1.1Latest
7 Sept 2026- SHA-256
- The developer does not publish one
- Source
- Release notes
Official downloads by platform
For Windows, use the Download button. Other platforms go straight to the publisher's own page or official store.
Requirements
- OS
- Windows 10 / 11, Windows Server, Linux, macOS
- Architecture
- 64-bit, 32-bit, ARM64
Licence
- Type
- Free
- Licence
- Proprietary — free
- Publisher
- learn.microsoft.com
Where these facts come from
Checked 30 Oct 2026
FAQ
Which ODBC driver installer do I need on 64-bit Windows?
The x64 installer. Microsoft notes that the x64 and ARM64 installers put both the 64-bit and 32-bit drivers on the PC, so 32-bit apps work too.
Can ODBC Driver 17 and 18 be installed together?
Yes. Microsoft says Driver 18 installs side by side with Driver 17 (latest 17.11.1.1).
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Microsoft ODBC Driver 18 for SQL Server
18.7.1.1 · Not stated