May 20, 2015 at 6:45 am
We need to install SQL Server 2012 since the current ERP software that we utilize is not yet compliant/certified for 2014. We were planning to buy SQL Server 2014 and downgrading to 2012.
My question pertains to licensing for when we decide to move back to 2014 in the future...Can we just install 2014 and move the databases without any licensing changes or fees or do we need to purchase Software Assurance with our SQL Server 2014 purchase?
We will ask our Microsoft reps about this too, but we have been led astray by them previously (not understanding their own licensing agreements). I figured I would ask the experts that do this everyday. Thanks for any help!
May 20, 2015 at 9:06 am
I believe you will need software assurance for the downgrade (2014->2012) rights.
May 21, 2015 at 1:52 pm
That stinks! I thought you got the downgrade rights via your volume purchasing license.
May 22, 2015 at 5:10 am
I was misinformed, SA not needed for downgrade ( volume licensing? )
May 22, 2015 at 5:49 am
Thanks. So my original question still stands.....if I downgrade to SQL Server 2012, can we just upgrade back to 2014 when we are ready or do we need Software Assurance to upgrade at no charge?
May 22, 2015 at 8:08 am
I would check with your M$ licensing manager, but my understanding is that one licence allows you to use one installation, with the version you licensed or either of the previous two versions. If you install 2012, it's still a 2014 license and you can upgrade teh box to that version later if you wish. If you're audited, they match boxes to purchased licences. If that tallies, you're fine.
However, I'd double check and get a written confirmation if I were you. I'm not on the licensing team - what I've been told may not be what you get told. Apart from anything we are on SA.
I'm a DBA.
I'm not paid to solve problems. I'm paid to prevent them.
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