You can primarily buy SQL Server licenses directly online from the Microsoft Store.
To acquire a SQL Server license, the most direct method is through Microsoft's official channels. You can easily purchase editions such as SQL Server 2022 Standard edition online from the Microsoft Store.
Beyond direct online purchases, there are several other avenues and considerations when buying SQL Server licenses, catering to different business sizes and needs.
Key Places to Purchase SQL Server Licenses
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Microsoft Store (Online):
- This is the most straightforward option for individual licenses or smaller deployments.
- You can directly purchase various editions, including SQL Server 2022 Standard, via the official Microsoft Store.
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Microsoft Volume Licensing Programs:
- For organizations requiring multiple licenses or looking for more flexible terms, Microsoft offers various volume licensing programs (e.g., Enterprise Agreement, Open Value, Select Plus). These programs often provide better pricing per license, centralized management, and software assurance benefits.
- These are typically handled through Microsoft-authorized licensing partners.
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Authorized Microsoft Partners and Resellers:
- Many IT solution providers, value-added resellers (VARs), and system integrators are authorized to sell Microsoft software licenses.
- Partners can offer bundled solutions, implementation services, and ongoing support, making them a good choice if you need more than just the license.
- They can also help navigate complex licensing models and ensure you select the most cost-effective option for your specific requirements.
Understanding SQL Server Licensing Models
SQL Server offers different licensing models to accommodate various deployment scenarios:
- Per Core Licensing: This model is typically used for deployments that require maximum compute power or that are virtualized and have high density. You license all physical cores on the server, with a minimum of four cores per physical processor.
- Server + Client Access License (CAL) Licensing: This model is suitable for deployments where you can count the number of users or devices accessing the SQL Server. You purchase a server license for each server instance and then CALs for each user or device that accesses the server.
Important Considerations When Buying
When purchasing a SQL Server license, consider the following:
- Edition: SQL Server comes in different editions (e.g., Express, Developer, Standard, Enterprise), each with varying features, scalability, and pricing. Choose an edition that aligns with your specific needs.
- Version: Ensure you are purchasing the desired version (e.g., SQL Server 2022, 2019).
- Software Assurance: Consider adding Software Assurance (SA) to your purchase. SA provides benefits like version upgrades, support, and flexible deployment options (e.g., Fail-over rights, Disaster Recovery rights).
- Deployment Environment: Whether you plan to deploy on-premises, in a virtualized environment, or in the cloud (e.g., Azure SQL Database, SQL Server on Azure VMs) will influence the optimal licensing strategy. Cloud-based SQL offerings often have different billing models (e.g., pay-as-you-go).
Summary of Purchase Options
To summarize the primary ways to acquire a SQL Server license:
| Purchase Method | Description | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Store | Direct online purchase of individual licenses (e.g., SQL Server 2022 Standard). | Small businesses, individual developers, immediate needs for standard editions. |
| Volume Licensing | Programs for organizations needing multiple licenses or large deployments. | Enterprises, large organizations, businesses seeking cost efficiencies and benefits. |
| Authorized Partners | Resellers and IT solution providers offering licenses, often with services. | Businesses needing comprehensive solutions, support, or complex licensing advice. |
By considering these options and understanding the licensing models, you can make an informed decision on where and how to purchase your SQL Server license.
