SQL Server License for DR

Question

I have a SQL Server 2016 Standard Edition server hosting a financial database.

I have been asked to create an identical server in another DC and do a weekly restore of this DB to the new server for DR purposes.

Will I need a SQL license for this? No-one will ever use this copy for any work.

Answer 1

Will I need a SQL license for this? No-one will ever use this copy for any work.

As per SQL Server Licensing: High Availability and Disaster Recovery benefits if you have a license and have also purchases Software Assurance (SA) you are allowed to run a PASSIVE instance. A passive instance is one on which you do not run query. In your case since you would only be restoring I believe you can go ahead (of course if you have purchased SA).

I always urge OP to get expert opinion on licensing from MS licensing expert.

Answer 2

Hi @Charlie ,

This is technical forum and we generally ask user to speak to licensing expert for such issues.
you can consult professionals in this area calling 1-800-426-9400, Monday through Friday, 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. (Pacific Time). For international customers, please use the https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/worldwide to find contact information in your locations. For Volume Licensing Service Support, please use the https://www.microsoft.com/licensing/servicecenter/Help/Contact.aspx to contact information for your country.

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