Understanding SQL Server 2012 Standard Pricing for Devs

Are you a developer looking to understand SQL Server 2012 Standard pricing? Look no further. In this article, we will explore the pricing options available for SQL Server 2012 Standard and help you make an informed decision.

What is SQL Server 2012 Standard?

Before diving into pricing, let’s first understand what SQL Server 2012 Standard is. SQL Server 2012 is a relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by Microsoft. It allows users to store, organize, and access data as needed. The Standard version includes features such as backup compression and basic data integration services.

Basic Features of SQL Server 2012 Standard

SQL Server 2012 Standard includes several features that make it an attractive option for developers:

These features, along with others, make SQL Server 2012 Standard a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses and developers.

SQL Server 2012 Standard Pricing Options

Now that we understand the basic features of SQL Server 2012 Standard, let’s dive into pricing. SQL Server 2012 Standard offers two main pricing options:

Per Core Licensing

The first pricing option for SQL Server 2012 Standard is per-core licensing. This option allows users to purchase licenses based on the number of cores in the server where SQL Server will be installed.

If your server has four cores, for example, you would need to purchase four SQL Server 2012 Standard per-core licenses. Each license allows for up to two virtual instances of SQL Server 2012 Standard.

The cost of per-core licensing varies depending on the number of cores and the specific licensing program. It is important to consult with a Microsoft licensing specialist to determine the best pricing option for your needs.

Server + CAL Licensing

The second pricing option for SQL Server 2012 Standard is server + CAL licensing. This option requires users to purchase a server license and client access licenses (CALs) for each user or device that will access SQL Server 2012 Standard.

The cost of server + CAL licensing is typically lower than per-core licensing, making it a popular choice for smaller businesses or those with a limited number of users.

FAQs about SQL Server 2012 Standard Pricing

Now that we’ve covered the basics of SQL Server 2012 Standard pricing, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions.

How do I determine how many licenses I need?

The number of licenses needed will depend on whether you choose per-core licensing or server + CAL licensing. For per-core licensing, you will need one license for each core on your server. For server + CAL licensing, you will need one server license and one CAL for each user or device that will access SQL Server 2012 Standard.

Can I change my licensing model if my needs change?

Yes, you can change your licensing model at any time. However, it is important to consult with a Microsoft licensing specialist to ensure you are making the best decision for your needs.

What happens if I need to move my SQL Server to a different server?

If you have per-core licensing, you will need to purchase new licenses based on the number of cores in your new server. If you have server + CAL licensing, you will need to transfer your server license and CALs to the new server.

Are there any additional costs beyond licensing?

Yes, there may be additional costs beyond licensing, such as maintenance and support fees. It is important to consult with a Microsoft specialist to determine the full cost of SQL Server 2012 Standard.

Conclusion

SQL Server 2012 Standard offers a variety of features for developers and small to medium-sized businesses. When it comes to pricing, users can choose between per-core licensing and server + CAL licensing. It is important to consult with a Microsoft licensing specialist to determine the best pricing option for your needs.