Oracle: what is the “instantclient” connection string format?
and how does it differ from the regular connection string? Connecting with the instant client is no different than with the full stack client - all connect string formats are the same. If you installed the instant client in a non-standard location on the filesystem or are having problems connecting to the database listener, be sure that your TNS_ADMIN environment points to the directory that contains your tnsnames.ora and sqlnet.ora files, Here is a comprehensive list of connection strings for Oracle ( http://www.connectionstrings.com/oracle ) The format is: name/pass@//host:1521/instance