ODP.NET vs. Microsoft .NET Provider for Oracle

[a1jit]

Hi Guys,

 

I plan to connect to oracle database, but i see 2 providers which allow me to do it

 

1) ODP.NET

2) Microsoft .NET Provider for Oracle

 

My question is

1) Do i need Oracle Client Installed on machine for this 2 providers?

2) Which data provider is better?

3) Which allows me to interact with database easily

4) Which provider is more powerful in terms of handling, dealing with data

5) Which gives me a faster connection to the database

 

Thanks for any input and guidance