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SQL Server 2025 Standard License

Shivank Gupta 0 Reputation points
2026-02-14T15:56:35.87+00:00

I have downloaded SQL server 2025 Standard iso from volume licensing portal and when trying to install it gives predefined license key in the setup but we also have key available in licensing portal which is different than the one embedded in the setup so just wanted to know which one to use and what's the difference between these 2 keys.

SQL Server | Other
SQL Server | Other

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  1. Erland Sommarskog 134K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2026-02-24T21:52:56.39+00:00

    There are some differences between running SQL Server on a physical machine and in a virtual. I don't recall the exact details, but you can read the SQL Server Licensing Guide yourself.

    When it comes to the original question: In that case, it does not matter if the machine is physical. Use whichever key you want, but be sure that you really have the license on file.

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  1. Erland Sommarskog 134K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2026-02-14T20:18:40.8633333+00:00

    I would say: Use whichever key you want. The important thing if you are license-audited is that you have your license papers (well, digital papers). And, of course, if you use the same key in multiple places, is that you have licenses for all of these places.

    Disclaimer: this is a technical forum, and you can not get authoritative answers on legal matters here. My answer above is based what I've heard about licensing and product keys over the years. But I've never been in a role where I have any responsibility for licenses. If you want an answer that is binding from a legal perspective, you will need to contact your Microsoft representative.

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  2. Q&A Assist
    2026-02-14T15:56:44.6333333+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    When installing SQL Server 2025 Standard, the predefined license key embedded in the setup is typically used for installation and activation of the software. This key is automatically detected during the installation process. On the other hand, the key available in the licensing portal is a separate volume licensing product key that you can use if you have a specific licensing agreement or if you need to activate the software in a different manner, such as for a different installation or deployment scenario.

    If you are installing SQL Server for production use and have a volume licensing agreement, it is generally recommended to use the key from the licensing portal. The predefined key may be intended for evaluation or specific use cases, while the licensing portal key is tied to your organization's licensing terms.

    In summary, if you have a valid volume licensing key, use that one for your installation to ensure compliance with your licensing agreement.

    References:

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