DBMS: Extended Stored Procedure (Definitions)

"A SQL Server-provided procedure that dynamically loads and executes a function within a dynamic link library (DLL) in a manner similar to a stored procedure. Actions outside of SQL Server can be triggered and external information returned to SQL Server. Return status codes and output parameters (identical to their counterparts in regular stored procedures) are also supported." (Microsoft Corporation, "SQL Server 7.0 System Administration Training Kit", 1999)

"A function in a dynamic link library (DLL) that is coded using the SQL Server 2000 Extended Stored Procedure API. The function can then be invoked from Transact-SQL using the same statements that are used to execute Transact- SQL stored procedures." (Anthony Sequeira & Brian Alderman, "The SQL Server 2000 Book", 2003)

"A stored procedure in SQL Server that provides an interface to external COM components (typically DLL files)." (Marilyn Miller-White et al, "MCITP Administrator: Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Optimization and Maintenance 70-444", 2007)

"A function in a dynamic link library (DLL) that is coded using the SQL Server Extended Stored Procedure API. The function can then be invoked from Transact-SQL using the same statements that are used to execute Transact-SQL stored procedures." (Microsoft, "SQL Server 2012 Glossary", 2012)

"Provide a way for SQL Server to add functionality by calling stored procedures. This provides a way to affect external data and to return external data and information to SQL Server." (Owen Williams, "MCSE TestPrep: SQL Server 6.5 Design and Implementation", 1998)

"Extended stored procedures, or XPs, are functions exposed through unmanaged binary DLLs that are designed to run within the SQL Server process space. XPs were used in SQL Server 2000 and prior to programmatically extend the functionality of SQL Server using languages like C and C++ that compile to native code. XPs have been deprecated and SQL CLR functions and procedures are preferred over XPs." (Michael Coles & Rodney Landrum, , "Expert SQL Server 2008 Encryption", 2008)