Connection techniques

The following are the five ways to connect a database:

  • As an argument when starting OpenEdge
  • With the CONNECT statement (in the Procedure Editor or in an ABL procedure)
  • With the OpenEdge Data Dictionary
  • With the OpenEdge Data Administration tool
  • Using the Auto-connect feature
Note: Starting a server or broker for a database is distinct from connecting to a database. You must start a server or broker for a database before you can connect to the database in multi-user mode. For information about starting a server or broker, see Manage Progress Application Server for OpenEdge with OpenEdge Management or Starting Up and Shutting Down a Database.

This section explains how to connect to databases using these various techniques. OpenEdge Programming Interfaces explains why you might choose one technique instead of another.