Today I searched how to migrate ODBC data sources from Windows XP to Windows 7. I have built up quiet the list of data sources over the years and was dreading having to key in each one after setting up Windows 7. I found a free ODBC tool called DTM ODBC Manager. It allows for backup of ODBC data sources. This backup can then be imported back into another windows installation via their software.

DTM ODBC Manager Interface

Follow these simple steps to backup your ODBC data sources:

1. Download and install the DTM ODBC Manager
2. Open up the DTM ODBC Manager and select the System and User DSN’s to backup.  They are all checked by default.
3. Click the arrow next to the export button at the top and select “export selected”.
4. Give your backup file a name when prompted.

Follow these simple steps to restore your ODBC data sources:

1. Copy the backup file created above to the machine it is going to be restored to.
2. Install the DTM ODBC Manager on the machine the data sources are being restored to.
3. Open up the DTM ODBC Manager
4. Click the import button and browse to the backup file.

All your data sources should now be imported on the new computer or clean Windows install depending on what you are doing.  You will still have to install the odbc data source drivers that you will be using.  Your data sources will not work correctly until the database driver is installed on the new system.  Hats off to the DTM people for making this easy to use product available for free.