SQL macros use data sources to access databases. A data source defines the access parameters including credentials. The same database access information is required for each method. Similarly, the database must allow access using the information provided no matter which method is used.
| Method | Primary Benefit | Key Attributes | Documentation | Express Edition | Pro Edition |
|---|
| Data source profiles | Convenience | - SQL for Confluence specific configuration
- Convenience
- Configuration change in affect immediately
- File system access not needed
- Can reference application server defined data sources
- Recommended for evaluation, testing, short term scenarios
- Medium or heavier use scenarios should also employ Cache for Confluence
| Data Source Profilessource profiles |  | |
| Application server defined data source | Performance | - Application server based configuration
- Best performance via connection pooling/reuse
- Requires Confluence restart after configuration change
- Recommended for long term/heavy use scenarios
| Configure Application Server-based Data Sourcesapplication server based data sources |  | |
| Tip |
|---|
| title | Macro Security for data source access control |
|---|
|
Macro Security for Confluence can can be used to control access to specific data sources in the same way no matter what method is used. |
| Tip |
|---|
| title | Use Cache and Future macros around SQL macros |
|---|
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Give your users better response times and reduce the load on your server by using Cache for Confluence macros macros for heavy use scenarios. |