How to prove that the purchased SQL is genuine

Question

We purchased an SQL from the distributor. How can we prove that the SQL we bought is genuine and not pirated? If you have any questions, please contact me at the email address <mod: PII removed>@net.

Answer 1

To validate that a purchased SQL Server license is genuine when it was obtained through a distributor, use these approaches:

1. Verify purchase source and documentation
   • Confirm that the distributor is an authorized Microsoft reseller.
   • Keep and review official purchase documents (invoice, contract, order confirmation). These are the primary proof of entitlement.
2. Check licensing channel and portals
   • If the license was purchased through Volume Licensing (for example, Enterprise Agreement, Open, MPSA), verify that the SQL Server entitlement appears under the correct account in the appropriate Microsoft licensing portal (such as the Volume Licensing Service Center or other licensing portals referenced by the distributor).
   • Ensure that the account used to sign in is the correct Volume Licensing Administrator account for that agreement, and that all relevant License IDs/contracts are visible.
3. Validate installation media and keys
   • SQL Server installation media obtained through official Microsoft channels or authorized distributors is typically genuine. For many volume licenses, the media is “pre‑pidded” (the product key is embedded), so a separate key may not be displayed.
   • If a product key is required, obtain it only from official Microsoft licensing portals or directly from the authorized distributor, not from third‑party key lists or unofficial websites.
4. Use Microsoft’s “How to Tell” resources (for general guidance on genuine software)
   • Microsoft provides a central “How to Tell” site that explains how to identify genuine Microsoft software and packaging, how to recognize proper Certificates of Authenticity (COA), and how to report suspected counterfeit software. This guidance applies conceptually across Microsoft products and can help assess whether media, packaging, and documentation look legitimate. See the How to Tell site and its related pages on packaging and licensing.
5. Contact Microsoft or the distributor if in doubt
   • If there is any concern about the legitimacy of the license or media, contact the distributor with purchase details and request confirmation that the license came through official Microsoft channels.
   • If the distributor cannot provide satisfactory proof, or if counterfeit is suspected, use Microsoft’s reporting options described on the “How to Tell” site to report and seek guidance.

Keeping clear records of the purchase and ensuring that all keys/media originate from official or authorized channels is the practical proof that the SQL Server license is genuine.

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References:

• Stay safe with a genuine Office license
• SQL Server on Linux frequently asked questions (FAQ)
• KB913945 - Microsoft does not certify that third-party products will work with Microsoft SQL Server
• SQL volume license not available - Microsoft Q&A
• How to obtain the authorized key? I only see the key for Windows Server 2022 Standard Edition, but I can't find the key for SQL Standard Edition - Microsoft Q&A
• Can SQL Server 2022 Standard License Be Downgraded to SQL Server 2016 Standard? - Microsoft Q&A
• How can I get the email used to buy a sqlserver license - Microsoft Q&A