How to Check SQL Server Version

Hey Dev, are you having trouble figuring out how to check the version of your SQL Server? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Checking the version is crucial to keep your SQL Server up-to-date and ensure it’s compatible with the latest software. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step.

Step 1: Open SQL Server Management Studio

The first step is to open your SQL Server Management Studio. This is where you’ll be able to access all the server’s properties and features. If you don’t have it installed, download it from the Microsoft website and follow the installation instructions.

FAQ

Question
Answer
Can I use a different tool to manage my SQL Server?
Yes, there are many third-party tools available, but SQL Server Management Studio is the official tool and the most commonly used.
What if I can’t find SQL Server Management Studio on my computer?
You may need to install it. You can download it from the Microsoft website, or contact your IT department for assistance.

Step 2: Connect to Your SQL Server Instance

Once you have SQL Server Management Studio open, you’ll need to connect to your SQL Server instance. If you’re not sure how to do this, check with your IT department or refer to the SQL Server documentation for instructions.

FAQ

Question
Answer
What is a SQL Server instance?
An instance is a copy of the SQL Server software, running on a server. You may have multiple instances on a single server, each with its own set of databases and configuration settings.
What if I can’t connect to my SQL Server instance?
You may need to check your network settings or firewall rules. If you’re still having trouble, contact your IT department.

Step 3: Check the Version Number

Now that you’re connected to your SQL Server instance, it’s time to check the version number. You can do this by running a simple query in SQL Server Management Studio:

SELECT @@VERSION;

This will return a result set with the version number in the first column.

FAQ

Question
Answer
What if the query doesn’t return any results?
Make sure you’re connected to the correct instance and that you have the necessary permissions to run the query. If you’re still having trouble, contact your IT department.
What do the version numbers mean?
Each version number consists of four parts: the major version, the minor version, the build number, and the service pack level. The meaning of each part can vary depending on the version of SQL Server. You can refer to the SQL Server documentation for more information.

Step 4: View SQL Server Properties

If you want to view more detailed information about your SQL Server instance, you can do so by right-clicking on the instance name in SQL Server Management Studio and selecting “Properties”. This will bring up a dialog box with a variety of tabs containing information about the instance, including the version number.

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FAQ

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Answer
What other information can I find in the SQL Server properties?
You can find information about server settings, security, database options, and more.
What if I don’t have permission to view the properties?
You may need to contact your IT department to request additional permissions.

Step 5: Record the Version Information

Now that you’ve located the version number, it’s important to record it somewhere for future reference. You can do this by creating a text file or spreadsheet and noting the version number, along with the date and any other relevant information.

FAQ

Question
Answer
Why is it important to record the version information?
Keeping track of the version numbers of your SQL Server instances can help you ensure that they’re up-to-date and compatible with other software. It can also be helpful when troubleshooting issues.
Where should I store the version information?
You should store it somewhere secure, such as a password-protected file or a database. Make sure it’s accessible to others who may need it, but not to unauthorized users.

Conclusion

Congratulations, Dev, you now know how to check the version of your SQL Server! By following these five easy steps, you can ensure that your server is up-to-date and compatible with the latest software. Remember to record the version information for future reference, and don’t hesitate to contact your IT department if you need assistance.

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