Microsoft has launched the public preview of the mssql-python driver, enhancing Python connectivity with Microsoft SQL Server and Azure SQL. Now supporting macOS ARM devices and featuring robust connection pooling, this cross-platform tool invites developers to contribute and shape its future. Unique :
Microsoft Launches Public Preview of mssql-python Driver
If you’re a Python developer working with Microsoft SQL Server or Azure SQL, exciting news is here. Microsoft just announced the public preview of their new mssql-python driver, now available on GitHub. This driver promises better platform support and powerful features designed to streamline Python connectivity with SQL Server.
What’s New in mssql-python?
One of the biggest updates is native support for macOS ARM-based systems. This means developers using Apple Silicon (M1, M2 chips) can now connect seamlessly to Microsoft SQL Server. Microsoft is also working on Linux support, so cross-platform compatibility is expanding fast.
Another major feature is the introduction of a robust connection pooling system. Connection pooling can drastically improve app performance by reusing existing database connections instead of opening new ones repeatedly.
Connection Pooling Highlights
- Connection Reuse: Keeps alive connections ready to reuse, boosting speed.
- Max Pool Size: Limits the number of connections to manage resource use.
- Idle Connection Pruning: Automatically disconnects idle connections after a timeout.
- Multiple Pools: Supports separate pools for different databases or endpoints.
- Thread Safety: Uses mutex locking for safe multi-threaded access.
- Connection Health Checks: Validates connections before reuse to avoid errors.
- Explicit Reset: Resets connections to clear session state.
- Global Settings & Logging: Easy-to-configure defaults and detailed logs for debugging.
Note: Currently, connection pooling is available only on Windows. macOS and Linux support are coming soon.
What’s Next?
Microsoft is actively working on several enhancements:
- Linux support for the driver and connection pooling.
- Bulk Copy support to speed up large data transfers.
- Microsoft Entra ID authentication (previously Azure AD) for macOS and Linux.
Try It Out and Join the Conversation
Microsoft encourages developers to test the driver and contribute feedback. You can find the project on GitHub, open issues, suggest features, and join discussions on the SQL Server Tech Community.
“We’re excited to announce the public preview of the mssql-python driver with new platform support and powerful features.” – Microsoft
“Join us and contribute in shaping the future of Python connectivity with SQL Server!” – Microsoft
For Python developers eager to leverage Microsoft SQL Server with improved performance and cross-platform support, this preview is a great opportunity to get involved early.
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