Is it possible to use a 32-bit ODBC driver with a 64-bit application on windows?

Question

I have a 64-bit application and an ODBC-driver which only comes in 32-bit-flavour. Is there any way to have the application connect to the datasource through the driver?

I realize the short answer is NO, related to 64-bit applications not being able to load a 32-bit dll, but I am looking for a slightly longer and more positive answer.

Re-writing the driver is not an option at this point.

Answer 1

Host the ODBC-driver in a 32-bit process, and communicate between your now 64-bit application and the process. Pick your IPC of choice for doing so (I'd probably go with sockets, for no particular reason).

Here's an article that discusses this approach, and some of the implications.