Forum Discussion

sheffali's avatar
sheffali
Copper Contributor
Nov 25, 2025

SQL Server Customized EKM library support

What all languages are supported when creating customized EKM DLL for SQL Server. Is it only supporting C/C++ or fully managed code DLL like C# (.net framework 4) is also supported? 

1 Reply

  • carlwalk's avatar
    carlwalk
    Copper Contributor
    Dec 01, 2025

    It looks like building a custom EKM provider isn’t officially supported anymore. Microsoft hasn’t published a public SDK or documentation for creating custom EKM libraries, and most existing providers are built under NDA. Also, SQL Server expects a native (C/C++) implementation and managed code like .NET typically won’t work reliably. So unless there’s official documentation or guidance from Microsoft, creating your own custom EKM DLL isn’t recommended, and using an existing supported provider is usually the safer option.

Resources