SQL server 2012 enterprise evaluation version is expired how to upgrade..?

Question

Hello All,

We were using SQL 2012 Enterprise Edition evaluation pack,  now its expired. we want to update it, our software only support one of the below sql version

• Microsoft SQL Server 2012 SP2 - Enterprise Editions (32 & 64 bit)  (SQL 2012 Business Intelligence Edition is not supported)
• Microsoft SQL Server 2014 - Standard, Business Intelligence, Enterprise & Datacenter Editions (32 & 64-bit)

we need to purchase any of the above, but unfortunately Microsoft is not allowing 2012 or 2014 versions, it only allowing 2016 to purchase.

Can anyone please advice me to upgrade the SQL server.

Thanks,

Biju

Answer 1

Here are the steps:

1. From SQL Server installation media, launch setup.exe.
2. From the SQL Server Installation Center click Maintenance, and then select Edition Upgrade

3. It would launch Wizard where you need to keep on pressing next, next and finally “Upgrade”. Make sure that edition shown in the license terms screen is what you purchased.

http://blog.sqlauthority.com/2015/06/22/sql-server-evaluation-period-has-expired-how-to-activate-sql-server/

as suggested by Olaf suggested contact microsoft licensing specialist help you.

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Answer 2

Hello Biju,

See http://download.microsoft.com/download/9/C/6/9C6EB70A-8D52-48F4-9F04-08970411B7A3/SQL_Server_2016_Licensing_Guide_EN_US.pdf => Page 28 "Cross Editions / downgrade rights".
Depending on licensing model you may have the option to purchase SQL Server 2016 license but to use a downgrade Version like SQL Server 2012. For mor informations please contact a Microsoft sales partner.

For further question regarding pricing / licensing please contact a Microsoft sales partner or licensing expert.

Call (1-800-426-9400), Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM PST to speak directly to Microsoft licensing specialist.

http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/server-cloud/products/sql-server/buy.aspx

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Olaf Helper

[ Blog] [ Xing] [ MVP]

Answer 3

Hi,

about licensing, it's possible to downgrade your SQL Server 2016 to Prior Versions(2014, 2012). if you purchase your license throuth VL contract, you may download the Prior Versions from VLSC Portal.

for confirmation & more Details contact Microsoft licensing support in your Region

thanks

diramoh