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Can sqlserver perpetual and subscription lincense mixed?

Sam Chen 20 Reputation points
2025-10-24T06:06:54.71+00:00

We have purchased 4 core SQL Server perpetual lincense. But after new years, now we want to add more CPU to DB server. So, can we buy subscription lincense for new DB core? Or only can buy perpetual lincense？

SQL Server | Other
SQL Server | Other

Additional SQL Server features and topics not covered by specific categories

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Answer accepted by question author

Lakshmi Narayana Garikapati 1,330 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
2025-10-24T17:15:07.9+00:00

Hi @Sam Chen,

Thank you for reaching out to the SQL Forum.

Microsoft allows mixed licensing models (perpetual and subscription) within the same SQL Server edition and version, provided that all cores are properly licensed and compliance is maintained. Here's how it works:

  1. Allowed: You can combine perpetual licenses (e.g. from a Volume Licensing agreement) with subscription licenses (from CSP or SPLA) as long as they cover the same edition and version of SQL Server.
  2. Core Licensing Rule: Every physical or virtual core must be licensed. You can use 4 cores of perpetual and add 2 or more cores via subscription, but you must ensure the total number of cores is covered.
  3. Same Edition Required: You cannot mix SQL Server Standard (perpetual) with SQL Server Enterprise (subscription), or vice versa.
  4. Same Version Recommended: Mixing SQL Server 2022 perpetual with SQL Server 2025 subscription may cause support and compliance issues. Stick to the same version unless you're upgrading all cores.

Thanks,

Lakshmi.

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