---
title: "Add Variable | Microsoft Docs"
ms.custom: ""
ms.date: "06/13/2017"
ms.prod: "sql-server-2014"
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ms.technology: "integration-services"
ms.topic: conceptual
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  - "sql12.dts.designer.addvariable.f1"
helpviewer_keywords: 
  - "Add Variable dialog box"
ms.assetid: d09b5d31-433f-4f7c-8c68-9df3a97785d5
author: janinezhang
ms.author: janinez
manager: craigg
---
# Add Variable
  Use the **Add Variable** dialog box to specify the properties of a new variable.  
  
## Options  
 **Container**  
 Select a container in the list. The container defines the scope of the variable. The container can be either the package or an executable in the package.  
  
 **Name**  
 Type the variable name.  
  
 **Namespace**  
 Specify the namespace of the variable. By default, user-defined variables are in the **User** namespace.  
  
 **Value type**  
 Select a data type.  
  
 **Value**  
 Type a value. The value must be compatible with the data type specified in the **Value type** option.  
  
 **Read-only**  
 Select to make the variable read-only.  
  
## See Also  
 [Integration Services (SSIS) Variables](integration-services-ssis-variables.md)   
 [Integration Services Data Types](data-flow/integration-services-data-types.md)   
 [Use Variables in Packages](../../2014/integration-services/use-variables-in-packages.md)