<P> In computing, a data source name (DSN, sometimes known as a database source name, though "data sources" can comprise other repositories apart from databases) is a string that has an associated data structure used to describe a connection to a data source . Most commonly used in connection with ODBC, DSNs also exist for JDBC and for other data access mechanisms . The term often overlaps with "connection string". Most systems do not make a distinction between DSNs or connection strings and the term can often be used interchangeably . </P> <P> DSN attributes may include, but are not limited to: </P> <Ul> <Li> the name of the data source </Li> <Li> the location of the data source </Li> <Li> the name of a database driver which can access the data source </Li> <Li> a user ID for data access (if required) </Li> <Li> a user password for data access (if required) </Li> </Ul> <Li> the name of the data source </Li>

The full dsn string describe a connection to the database