DSNName

DSNName is a label used in software development to refer to a data source configuration that enables applications to connect to a database or other data source. It acts as an alias for a connection profile that specifies how to reach the data source, including the driver, network address, database name, and authentication method. By using a DSNName, applications can obtain a connection string at runtime without embedding sensitive details in code, improving portability and security.

In many data access frameworks, the concept derives from Data Source Name (DSN) in ODBC. A DSNName is stored in platform-specific locations: on Windows, as entries in the system DSN or user DSN stores (registry-backed); on Unix-like systems, in an odbc.ini file or similar configuration. Applications request the DSNName to open a connection, and the underlying driver reads the stored parameters.

Typical DSNName values are descriptive labels such as "SalesDB", "HRPostgres", or "AnalyticsOracle." A DSN entry may include fields like Driver, Server or Host, Port, Database, UID, and PWD, or may defer to external authentication.

Security considerations: Credentials may be stored with the DSN or supplied by the application or OS-level credential managers. Best practices include minimizing credential exposure, using encrypted storage, and preferring integrated authentication when available. Managing DSNName entries involves access control and regular reviews to ensure only authorized applications can connect.

See also: Data Source Name, ODBC, DSN-less connections, JDBC data sources, connection pooling.