End of Life for SQL Server 2012: What Devs Need to Know

Hello Dev, are you currently using SQL Server 2012 for your database needs? If so, you may want to pay attention to this article. As of July 12, 2022, SQL Server 2012 will reach its end of life (EOL). This means that Microsoft will no longer provide support or security updates for this version of SQL Server. If you’re not sure what this means for you and your business, keep reading to find out more.

What is SQL Server 2012 EOL?

SQL Server 2012, just like any other software, has a lifecycle. This includes the period of time from when it was released (in this case, April 2012) to when it will officially reach its EOL. On July 12, 2022, SQL Server 2012 will no longer be supported by Microsoft. This means that you will no longer receive security updates, product fixes, or technical support for any issues you may encounter.

It’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean that your SQL Server 2012 databases will stop working. However, continuing to use an unsupported version of SQL Server can pose significant risks to your organization, as we’ll discuss later in this article.

Why is SQL Server 2012 EOL important?

When a software product reaches EOL, it means that the vendor will no longer provide support or security updates for that product. This may not seem like a big deal at first, but it can have serious consequences for your business.

Without security updates, any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in the software will not be addressed. This means that hackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to gain access to your data or systems. As new threats emerge, it becomes increasingly important to stay up-to-date with security patches to avoid being targeted by attackers.

In addition to security risks, continuing to use an unsupported version of SQL Server can also lead to compatibility issues. As other software products are updated and evolve, they may no longer be compatible with older versions of SQL Server. This can lead to system failures, data corruption, and other problems that can negatively impact your business.

Finally, without technical support, you may find it difficult or even impossible to get help when you encounter issues with your databases. This can lead to extended downtime, lost productivity, and other problems that can impact your bottom line.

What are the options for migrating from SQL Server 2012?

If you’re currently using SQL Server 2012, it’s important to start planning your migration as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are several options available to you:

Option 1: Upgrade to a newer version of SQL Server

The most straightforward option is to upgrade to a newer version of SQL Server. This will ensure that you continue to receive support and security updates from Microsoft. The latest version of SQL Server (as of this writing) is SQL Server 2019, but there are also several other options available, including SQL Server 2017 and SQL Server 2016.

Upgrading to a newer version of SQL Server can be a complex process, especially if you have a large number of databases or complex configurations. However, Microsoft provides many resources to help simplify the process, and there are also third-party tools available that can assist with the migration.

Option 2: Move to Azure SQL Database

If you’re interested in moving your databases to the cloud, Azure SQL Database may be a good option for you. This is a fully managed cloud database service that is based on SQL Server. It provides many of the same features as SQL Server, but with the added benefits of scalability, high availability, and automated maintenance.

Migrating to Azure SQL Database can be a good option if you’re looking to reduce your infrastructure costs or if you have a distributed workforce that needs access to your databases from multiple locations. However, it’s important to note that there may be some differences in functionality compared to SQL Server, so you should thoroughly evaluate your requirements before making the move.

Option 3: Move to another database platform

If you’re interested in exploring other database options, there are several alternatives available, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB. Each of these platforms has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to evaluate your requirements carefully before making a decision.

FAQ

What happens if I continue to use SQL Server 2012 after EOL?

If you continue to use SQL Server 2012 after EOL, you will no longer receive support or security updates from Microsoft. This means that any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in the software will not be addressed, leaving your systems and data at risk of attack. In addition, you may encounter compatibility issues with other software products or experience extended downtime if you encounter issues with your databases.

Will my databases stop working after SQL Server 2012 EOL?

No, your databases will not stop working after SQL Server 2012 EOL. However, using an unsupported version of SQL Server can pose significant risks to your organization, as we’ve discussed earlier in this article.

How long does it typically take to migrate from SQL Server 2012 to a newer version?

The length of time it takes to migrate from SQL Server 2012 to a newer version depends on a variety of factors, including the number of databases you have, the complexity of your configurations, and the amount of data you need to migrate. In general, the process can take anywhere from several weeks to several months, so it’s important to start planning your migration as soon as possible.

Can I migrate from SQL Server 2012 directly to SQL Server 2019?

It is possible to migrate from SQL Server 2012 directly to SQL Server 2019, but it may not always be the best option. Depending on your specific requirements, it may be more appropriate to upgrade to an intermediate version of SQL Server first, such as SQL Server 2016 or SQL Server 2017. It’s important to thoroughly evaluate your requirements and consult with experts before making a decision.

Conclusion

SQL Server 2012 has been a reliable platform for many organizations over the years, but as we approach its EOL, it’s important to start planning your migration to a newer version or alternative database platform. Failure to do so can pose significant security risks and lead to compatibility issues that can impact your business. By taking the time to thoroughly evaluate your options and plan your migration, you can ensure a smooth transition to a supported and secure database platform.