SQL Server clr_enabled: What It Is, How to Enable It, and Security Considerations

SQL Server includes CLR (Common Language Runtime) integration, which allows users to execute .NET code within SQL queries. However, this feature is disabled by default due to security considerations. The setting clr_enabled determines whether CLR is allowed inside SQL Server.

This guide covers everything you need to know about clr_enabled:

• What it does and why it matters
• How to check if it is enabled
• How to enable it (step-by-step guide)
• Common troubleshooting steps
• Security risks and best practices

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a complete understanding of whether enabling CLR is the right choice for your SQL Server environment and how to do it safely.

What is clr_enabled in SQL Server?

clr_enabled is a configuration setting in SQL Server that controls whether CLR (Common Language Runtime) code execution is allowed. With CLR enabled, developers can write stored procedures, triggers, functions, and aggregates using .NET languages like C# instead of T-SQL.

Example Use Case

Suppose you need a complex mathematical function that isn’t easy to implement in T-SQL. Instead of writing it in SQL, you can create a CLR function in C#, compile it into a .NET assembly, and register it inside SQL Server.

However, due to security risks, Microsoft disables CLR by default in SQL Server, and administrators must manually enable it if required.

How to Check if clr_enabled is Enabled

Before enabling CLR, check if it’s already turned on with this SQL query:

SELECT name, value, value_in_use
FROM sys.configurations
WHERE name = 'clr enabled';

Understanding the Results:

• 0 = CLR is disabled (default setting)
• 1 = CLR is enabled

If the result is 0, you need to enable CLR before running any .NET-based stored procedures or functions.

How to Enable CLR in SQL Server

Follow these steps to enable CLR in SQL Server.

Step 1: Enable CLR Execution

Run the following command to enable CLR:

EXEC sp_configure 'clr enabled', 1;
RECONFIGURE;

Step 2: Verify the Change

Run the same query used earlier to confirm that clr_enabled is now set to 1:

SELECT name, value_in_use
FROM sys.configurations
WHERE name = 'clr enabled';

Step 3: Restart SQL Server (If Necessary)

While some changes take effect immediately, you might need to restart the SQL Server instance for CLR to work properly.

Common Errors and Troubleshooting clr_enabled Issues

Enabling CLR might not always work smoothly. Here are some common errors and their fixes:

Error 1: “Execution of user code in the .NET Framework is disabled.”

Solution: Ensure clr_enabled is set to 1, then restart SQL Server if the issue persists.

Error 2: “CLR strict security is enabled” (SQL Server 2017+)

Starting from SQL Server 2017, Microsoft introduced CLR strict security, which blocks all unsigned assemblies from running.

Solution: If running older CLR code, you may need to disable strict security:

EXEC sp_configure 'clr strict security', 0;
RECONFIGURE;

However, disabling this setting may introduce security risks (see below for best practices).

Error 3: “The module being executed is not trusted.”

This happens when the SQL Server instance doesn’t trust the CLR assembly.

Solution: You must mark the assembly as trusted by using sp_add_trusted_assembly or sign the assembly with a certificate.

Security Risks and Best Practices

While CLR integration provides powerful functionality, it also introduces security risks. Microsoft disables it by default because malicious assemblies can execute harmful operations inside SQL Server.

Why is CLR Disabled by Default?

• CLR allows execution of compiled .NET code, which could be exploited by attackers.
• Some assemblies can perform file system operations, registry modifications, or network requests.
• Malware or untrusted code execution could compromise the SQL Server instance.

How to Use CLR Safely

If you need to use CLR, follow these best practices:

1. Use SAFE Assemblies
   • Avoid EXTERNAL ACCESS or UNSAFE unless absolutely necessary.
   • Example: When creating a CLR assembly, specify SAFE mode.
2. Sign Assemblies with Certificates
   • Ensure that only trusted assemblies can run in your SQL Server.
3. Keep clr strict security Enabled (SQL Server 2017+)
   • If possible, avoid disabling clr strict security. Instead, sign and mark your assemblies as trusted.
4. Monitor CLR Usage
   • Regularly audit which assemblies are loaded using:

   SELECT * FROM sys.assemblies;

Alternatives to CLR in SQL Server

If you only need to execute .NET code occasionally, consider alternative methods:

• External Applications: Instead of embedding .NET logic inside SQL Server, run it externally.
• Stored Procedures in T-SQL: Some complex logic can be rewritten in T-SQL.
• SQL Server Agent Jobs: Schedule .NET-based tasks outside the database engine.

Summary and Next Steps

• clr_enabled allows SQL Server to execute .NET code but is disabled by default.
• You can enable it using sp_configure, but security risks should be carefully considered.
• Microsoft recommends using signed assemblies and keeping clr strict security enabled whenever possible.

Next Steps

1. If enabling CLR: Ensure your code is trusted and follows best security practices.
2. If encountering errors: Use the troubleshooting steps above.
3. If concerned about security: Explore alternative approaches.

For more details, check Microsoft’s official documentation on SQL Server CLR integration.

FAQs

Is enabling clr_enabled a security risk?

Yes, enabling CLR introduces security risks because it allows execution of .NET assemblies, which could be exploited. Always follow best practices to mitigate risks.

Can I use CLR in SQL Server Express?

Yes, SQL Server Express supports CLR, but the clr_enabled setting must be manually enabled.

What are alternatives to CLR for executing .NET code?

Instead of CLR, you can use external applications, T-SQL functions, or SQL Server Agent Jobs to execute .NET code outside the database engine.