When do I need the DB2 native client? There are two scenarios in which you would require the DB2 native client. You must install the DB2 client on the same machine as any DB2 Single-Tier driver. Additionally, you must install the DB2 client on the same machine as OpenLink's Request Broker and DB2 Database Agent, if the Broker and DB2 Agent do not reside on the same machine as the DB2 database.