The Cost of SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition

Greetings Dev! Are you looking to upgrade your database system to SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition? Before you make any decisions, it’s important to understand the costs involved. In this article, we’ll break down the expenses associated with SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition to help you make an informed decision.

What is SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition?

SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition is a relational database management system designed for small to medium sized organizations. It provides features such as data warehousing, data mining, and analysis services to support business intelligence needs.

How does it differ from other editions?

SQL Server 2012 comes in different editions, each with different features and price points. The Standard Edition is designed for smaller organizations with less demanding database needs. It offers basic features such as backup and recovery, security, and data integration. Other editions, such as Enterprise and Datacenter, offer more advanced features such as online indexing, partitioning, and advanced analytics.

The Cost of SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition

When considering the cost of SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition, there are a few factors to keep in mind. These include:

1. Licensing Costs

The first cost to consider is the licensing fee. SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition is licensed per core, with a minimum of 4 cores required per server. As of 2021, the cost for a single core license is around $3,600. This means that a 4-core server would cost around $14,400, not including any other fees or taxes.

2. CALs (Client Access Licenses)

In addition to the core licensing costs, organizations must also purchase Client Access Licenses (CALs) for users who will access the database. Each CAL grants one user the right to access the SQL Server. As of 2021, the cost for a single CAL is around $209. This cost can add up quickly for organizations with a large number of users.

3. Hardware Costs

Another factor to consider is the hardware required to run the SQL Server. The minimum hardware requirements for SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition include a 1.4 GHz processor, 1 GB of RAM, and 6 GB of available hard disk space. However, organizations with larger databases or more users may require additional hardware to ensure optimal performance.

FAQ

Question
Answer
What are the main features of SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition?
SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition provides features such as backup and recovery, security, data integration, and business intelligence tools to support data warehousing, data mining, and reporting.
What is the difference between SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition and Enterprise Edition?
The Enterprise Edition offers more advanced features such as online indexing, partitioning, and advanced analytics. It is designed for larger organizations with more demanding database needs.
Can I use SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition in a virtual environment?
Yes, SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition can be installed and run in a virtual environment. However, licensing requirements still apply.
What are CALs?
Client Access Licenses (CALs) grant users the right to access the SQL Server. Each CAL is tied to a specific user and cannot be transferred to another user.
How can I reduce the cost of SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition?
One way to reduce costs is to consider purchasing SQL Server through a Volume Licensing program, which offers discounts for purchasing multiple licenses. Another way is to look at alternative database management systems that may better fit your organization’s needs.
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Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of SQL Server 2012 Standard Edition can vary greatly depending on factors such as licensing, CALs, and hardware requirements. Organizations must carefully consider their database needs and budget before deciding whether Standard Edition is the right fit. By understanding the costs involved, Dev can make an informed decision to ensure their database system meets their organization’s requirements and stays within their budget.