SQL License issue

Question

We followed the guide available at:

https://www.mssqltips.com/sqlservertip/7794/upgrade-sql-server-from-evaluation-edition-to-standard-or-enterprise/  

 

However, when we tried to add the license key via the SQL Server Installation Center, we encountered an error. Please find the attached screenshot for your reference.

Could you please assist us in resolving this issue?

Regards

Abdulhakkeem

Answer 1

When encountering issues while adding a license key in SQL Server Installation Center, it is important to ensure that the SQL Server instance is in a state that allows for the upgrade. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:

1. Check SQL Server Version: Make sure that you are trying to upgrade from a compatible evaluation version to the desired edition (Standard or Enterprise).
2. Run as Administrator: Ensure that you are running the SQL Server Installation Center with administrative privileges. Right-click on setup.exe and select "Run as administrator".
3. Review Error Messages: If there is a specific error message displayed when you attempt to enter the license key, take note of it as it may provide clues on what is going wrong.
4. Use Registry Editor: If you are still having trouble, you may need to modify the registry to complete the upgrade. This involves editing specific keys related to SQL Server. However, be cautious when using the Registry Editor, as incorrect changes can affect your system.
5. Follow Upgrade Procedures: Make sure to follow the correct procedures for upgrading SQL Server, which typically involves selecting the appropriate options in the Installation Wizard, as outlined in the SQL Server documentation.

If the problem persists, consider checking the SQL Server error logs for more detailed information on what might be causing the issue.

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References:

• Upgrade SQL Server Using the Installation Wizard (Setup)
• Evaluation period has expired error message when working with SQL server