How Can I Indirectly Parameterize Table Names in SQL Server Queries Using .NET?

Using Parameters for Table Names in SQL Server with .NET

In certain scenarios, developers may wish to parameterize not only values but also other parts of a SQL query, such as table names. While directly parameterizing table names is not possible, there are indirect methods to achieve this.

Indirect Parameterization via sp_ExecuteSQL

One approach involves utilizing the sp_ExecuteSQL stored procedure, which allows the execution of dynamic SQL statements. By constructing the query within C# and concatenating the table name as a string, developers can send this parameterized query to the database.

Building and Sending a Parameterized Query

Alternatively, developers can also manually build the parameterized TSQL within C#. This involves concatenating the table name with the rest of the query and sending it down as a command. Whitelisting the table name is crucial to prevent malicious input.

Security Considerations

Even though developers are the sole users of the code, it's still important to note that the parameterization approach does not provide a significant increase in security. The best practice remains granting specific SELECT permissions on tables to the calling user or application.

Code Example

Example of indirectly parameterizing table names using sp_ExecuteSQL:

string tableName = "Employee";
string sql = "SELECT * FROM " + tableName + " WHERE Id = @Id";
using (SqlConnection connection = new SqlConnection(connectionString))
{
    using (SqlCommand command = connection.CreateCommand())
    {
        command.CommandText = sql;
        command.Parameters.AddWithValue("@Id", id);
        SqlDataReader reader = command.ExecuteReader();
    }
}

In this example, the table name is concatenated as a string within the command text.

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