HASHBYTES creates repeatable row fingerprints with SHA2 algorithms, but input encoding, NULL handling, and collision risk need a clear plan.
SQL SERVER – Explanation of WITH ENCRYPTION clause for Stored Procedure and User Defined Functions
Use WITH ENCRYPTION to hide the code of a stored procedure or UDF, but keep a copy of the script. Once encrypted, there is no simple way to decrypt it.
Which SQL Server Client Driver to Use Now
Choose a SQL Server client driver by application stack: ODBC, current OLE DB, Microsoft.Data.SqlClient, or JDBC, then test security defaults.