Why choose it
What the licence includes
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No CALs to buy
Per-core licensing requires no client access licences: any number of users or applications can use the database with no extra per-seat cost.
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Licence for 16 cores
Covers 16 cores. Microsoft requires a minimum of four licensed cores per server or virtual machine.
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Up to 24 cores
Standard edition uses at most the lesser of 4 sockets or 24 cores: this 16-core licence sits comfortably inside that limit.
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Windows Server 2016 or later
Installs on Windows Server 2016 and later, including Server Core. Requires .NET Framework 4.7.2.
System requirements
Compatibility and technical requirements
Indicative figures from Microsoft documentation. Always check the current requirements before installing.
Processor
x64 processor at 1.4 GHz or faster, 2.0 GHz or above recommended. Installation is supported on x64 processors only.
Memory
At least 1 GB of RAM, 4 GB or more recommended and increasing as the database grows.
Disk space
At least 6 GB free. A full install of every feature needs around 8 GB.
Operating system
Windows Server 2016 or later, or Windows 10 version 1607 or later. Requires .NET Framework 4.7.2.
How it works
Order, delivery and activation
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Complete your order
Pay with any method available at checkout: card, PayPal or digital wallets.
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Receive the media
We ship the genuine DVD with free shipping: handed to the courier within 24 business hours of payment.
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Install and activate
Install the system and activate the licence through official Microsoft channels, following the instructions you receive.
FAQ
Answers before you buy
Do I need CALs for SQL Server?
No. Per-core licensing requires no client access licences: as many users or applications as you like can use the database, with no per-seat cost.
Is there a minimum number of cores to license?
Yes: Microsoft requires at least four licensed cores for every physical server or virtual machine running SQL Server.
Which operating systems can I install it on?
Windows Server 2016 and later, including Server Core installations, or Windows 10 version 1607 and later. Requires .NET Framework 4.7.2.
What language is the operating system in?
The OEM media is English: the interface and setup are in English. Check this before ordering if you need another language.