If you're just building a new application, consider migrating from Access to SQL Server Express (free) or SQLite. But for supporting existing Access databases in a mixed environment? ACE 2016 is your answer. Have a specific error message? Drop it in the comments and I'll help decode it.
Provider=Microsoft.ACE.OLEDB.16.0;Data Source=C:\Data\Report.xlsx;Extended Properties="Excel 12.0 Xml;HDR=YES"; access 2016 database engine
AccessDatabaseEngine_x64.exe /passive Once installed, here are the most useful connection strings: If you're just building a new application, consider
Demystifying the Access 2016 Database Engine: When, Why, and How to Use It Have a specific error message
That’s where understanding the (ACE) comes in. Let’s cut through the confusion. What is the Access 2016 Database Engine? The Microsoft Access Database Engine 2016 (often called ACE — Access Connectivity Engine) is the core data provider that reads, writes, and manages .accdb and .mdb files. It replaces the older JET engine.
Provider=Microsoft.ACE.OLEDB.16.0;Data Source=C:\Data\Secure.accdb;Jet OLEDB:Database Password=MyPass;
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