SQLServer Protocols

SQLServer and its SQL Native Client are communicating through the protocol layer called SNI (SQLServer Network Interface).  The data packet is in MS proprietary format called TDS (Tabular Data Stream),

SQLServer communication supports 4 protocols:
(1) Shared Memory - used within the same server
(2) Named Pipe - developed for LAN environment.  Used within the server or between 2 server across LAN.
(3) TCPIP
(4) VIA (Virtual Interface Adapter) - used with compliant hardware