Solution to Fix 'Call to Undefined Function sqlsrv_connect()' Error - Easy Steps to Resolve SQL Server Database Connection Issue

If you are getting a "Call to Undefined Function sqlsrv_connect()" error when trying to connect to your SQL Server database, it means that the necessary drivers for PHP to communicate with SQL Server are missing or not properly installed. This error can be frustrating, but it is easily resolvable with a few simple steps.

Step 1: Download and Install the SQL Server Drivers for PHP

The first step in resolving this error is to download and install the SQL Server drivers for PHP. You can download the drivers from the official Microsoft website. Here's how:

1. Go to the Microsoft SQL Server Drivers for PHP download page.
2. Select the appropriate driver version based on your PHP version and operating system.
3. Click the "Download" button and save the file to your computer.
4. Extract the downloaded file to a folder on your computer.

Step 2: Configure PHP to Use the SQL Server Drivers

Once you have downloaded and installed the SQL Server drivers for PHP, you need to configure PHP to use them. Here's how:

Open your PHP configuration file (php.ini) in a text editor.

Add the following lines to the file:

extension=php_sqlsrv_XX_ts.dll
extension=php_pdo_sqlsrv_XX_ts.dll

Replace "XX" with the appropriate version number of the driver you downloaded.

Save the file and restart your web server.

Step 3: Test the Connection

After configuring PHP to use the SQL Server drivers, you should test the connection to your SQL Server database to ensure that the error is resolved. Here's how:

Create a new PHP file with the following code:

<?php
$serverName = "localhost";
$connectionOptions = array(
    "Database" => "your_database_name",
    "UID" => "your_username",
    "PWD" => "your_password"
);
$conn = sqlsrv_connect($serverName, $connectionOptions);
if ($conn === false) {
    die(print_r(sqlsrv_errors(), true));
} else {
    echo "Connected successfully";
}
?>

Replace "localhost", "your_database_name", "your_username", and "your_password" with the appropriate values for your database.

Save the file and run it in your web browser.

If the connection is successful, you should see the message "Connected successfully". If the error persists, you may need to troubleshoot further.

FAQ

Q1: What is the "Call to Undefined Function sqlsrv_connect()" error?

A: The "Call to Undefined Function sqlsrv_connect()" error occurs when the necessary drivers for PHP to communicate with SQL Server are missing or not properly installed.

Q2: How do I download and install the SQL Server drivers for PHP?

A: You can download the drivers from the official Microsoft website and install them by following the instructions provided.

Q3: How do I configure PHP to use the SQL Server drivers?

A: You need to add the appropriate lines to your PHP configuration file (php.ini) and restart your web server.

Q4: How do I test the connection to my SQL Server database?

A: You can create a new PHP file with the appropriate code to test the connection and run it in your web browser.

Q5: What should I do if the error persists after following these steps?

A: You may need to troubleshoot further or seek assistance from a qualified professional.

Related Links:

• Microsoft SQL Server Drivers for PHP download page
• PHP Manual - sqlsrv_connect() function
• PHP Manual - php.ini directives