Does SQL Server require a license?

Question

When running SQL Server in a physical OSE, all physical cores on the server must be licensed. Software partitioning does not reduce the number of core licenses required, except when licensing individual virtual machines (VMs). A minimum of four core licenses is required for each physical processor on the server.

Do you need a license for SQL Server?

You need to license every physical operating system environment (OSE) that is running SQL server software. You will need a core license for every core in the processor. You need at least four core licenses for each physical processor on the server (core licenses are sold in packs of two).

Is SQL Server free or paid?

With the introduction of SQL Server 2016 Microsoft has made the SQL Server 2016 Management Studio a free download (still you need a 'license' and agree with the terms, but you do not have to pay Microsoft any money).

What license is SQL Server using?

There are two main editions: Enterprise and Standard. Which other editions are available with SQL Server? Enterprise and Standard are the two main editions. The Web Edition is offered only to hosters through the Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA).

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