Clone sql server and use developer edition?

Question

I have a production enterprise 2019 sql server and I want to create a dev environment of this server by cloning it using Hyper-V. I am wondering if the SQL Developer edition license would allow me to run this dev environment without purchasing another enterprise 2019 license. It would technically have some production data so end users can validate they are getting the same results on dev and prod, but it will be a pure dev environment, with only a handful of people accessing a few times a month.

Please don't refer me to a reseller, I know how to be redirected to a reseller.

Answer 1

When you install SQL Server Developer Edition, the license terms are copied to a location like:

C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\150\License Terms\SQLServer2019_License_DEV_1033.rtf

You should read the license and apply it to your scenario.

The license states, in relevant part:

1. INSTALLATION AND USE RIGHTS.

a. General. You may install and use copies of the software on any device, including third party shared devices, to design, develop, test and demonstrate your programs. You may not use the software in a production environment.

b. Demonstration. Any person that has access to your internal network may install and use copies of the software to demonstrate use of your programs with the software. Those copies may not be used for any other purpose.

c. User Testing. Your end users may access the software to perform acceptance tests on your programs.

Answer 2

I think the reference to the dev rtf is a good answer. Its contents are in line with my use case.

Answer 3

Hi @wildert ,

SQL Server Developer edition includes all the functionality of Enterprise edition, but is licensed for use as a development and test system, not as a production server. Refer to MS document Editions and supported features of SQL Server.

You can go to Volume Licensing Service Center support. Choose region/language and choose to call or have web. Microsoft licensing specialist there will help you more effectively. They will give you an answer for your situation.

Hope this could help you.

Best regards,
Cathy

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Answer 4

This is a technical forum and we always refer people who ask about licensing to Microsoft. Simply because it is outside our competence. We are geeks, not lawyers.

And moreover, if you get license-audited, and you have a mail or a piece of paper from Microsoft giving clearance to your setup, you have something to stand on. A response from a forum will be worth nothing.