Old version SQL server license questions

Question

We have some SQL servers on prior 2012 versions (1 version 2005 and 5 versions 2008 R2, standard editions)  still being used for our business, I have two questions:

1. Microsoft extended support for 2005 and 2008 R2 version SQL server  has already ended by now,  do the old versions SQL servers above still need license compliance?
2. Per core based SQL server license model started for version 2012 servers and after, if 2005/2008 version SQL servers still need license compliance, do we have to use service/CAL based license to cover these old servers?

Thank you

Answer 1

Microsoft extended support for 2005 and 2008 R2 version SQL server has already ended by now, do the old versions SQL servers above still need license compliance?

Yes ofcourse, does not supported does not means you can run anything without proper license.

Per core based SQL server license model started for version 2012 servers and after, if 2005/2008 version SQL servers still need license compliance, do we have to use service/CAL based license to cover these old servers?

Server/CAL based license is still their, so you need to use that. Speak to local Microsoft Licensing Specialist.

Answer 2

Hi @RDU SQL ,

In addition, please refer to Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Licensing Guide.
For detailed information about the license issue, please call 1-800-426-9400, Monday through Friday, 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. (Pacific Time) to speak directly to a Microsoft licensing specialist. For international customers, please use the https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/worldwide to find contact information in your locations.

Best Regards,
Amelia

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