HI experts, we are truing up our Microsoft licenses.
We know that a SQL Server license is required or every instance. So a Windows server has 5 SQL instances installed requires 5 licenses, correct? Please confirm.
Do instances that have fallen out of support still require a license? for example they may be SQL 2008 or 2012. Do we have to include these instances in our count or licenses needed?
Thanks
To validate you need to follow up with Microsoft - anything we say here may not apply to your particular situation.
If you have core licenses for the server, then all instance on that server should be covered by that core license. In other words, if the server has 16 cores (not logical processors - cores) and you purchased 8 2-core packs (16 cores) then all instances on that server are covered under that core license.
If the server is a VM and you did not purchase core licenses - then it depends on the actual licenses purchased and how those licenses are applied to a guest. Generally speaking, if you licensed the guest then all instances on that guest will fall under that license.
However - do not take anything said here as actual licensing information. I have no idea what you purchased or how it has been applied in your environment.
Yes, all instances regardless of how old they may be need to be licensed. When Microsoft audits you and finds that you do not have enough licenses to cover actual servers/instances they definitely will let you know and charge you for those instances.
This is very helpful information. ALL of these are VMs.
I was not aware that the server license could relate to the SQL Licensing. (core licenses)
Thank you.