Can we downgrade MS SQL SERVER 2022 STD to MS SQL SERVER 2012 R2 STD?

Question

If I purchase a license for SQL Server 2022 Standard Edition but need to downgrade to SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition because my current application only supports the 2012 version, what steps should I take?

Specifically, could you please advise on where I can download the installation media and obtain the appropriate product key for the older 2012 version?

Answer 1

You would need to talk to Microsoft about this. Downgrading the license should not be difficult - as far as I know, you can always buy the most recent version of SQL Server and then install an older version.

But getting hold of the installation media of a version that is out of mainstream support and a product key can be more difficult. I don't if Microsoft is keen on providing that.

Well, there is one option: Get a Visual Studio subscription. From Subscriber Downloads, you can down all SQL Server versions back to 6.5 (save for SQL 7), and these are pre-pidded, so you have a key. But I don't think these downloads are licensed for production, so you cannot only buy a VS subscription, you also need to buy a real license. (The license as such is really only a piece of paper.)

So there is all reason to get in touch with a Microsoft representative or a reseller to see if you can get the installation media. And, no, this forum is not a channel for such requests.

Answer 2

To downgrade from SQL Server 2022 Standard Edition to SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Backup all databases: Ensure that you back up all databases, including the system databases.
2. Uninstall SQL Server 2022: Completely uninstall the SQL Server 2022 instance and all associated services.
3. Restart your computer: This step is necessary before proceeding with the installation of a new version.
4. Install SQL Server 2012: Use the installation media for SQL Server 2012 to perform the installation, ensuring you use the same instance name as before.
5. Apply updates: After installation, make sure to install the latest service packs and cumulative updates for SQL Server 2012.
6. Restore databases: Finally, restore the databases from the backups you created.

For obtaining the installation media and product key for SQL Server 2012, consider the following options:

• Microsoft Licensing Page: If you have a volume licensing agreement, you can download the software from the Microsoft 365 admin center.
• Contact your software vendor: They can assist you in obtaining the installation media and the appropriate product key.
• Free versions: Check if there are any available free versions of SQL Server 2012 that you can use.

Ensure that your application is compatible with SQL Server 2012 before proceeding with the downgrade.