Migrate SQL Server License to New Microsoft SQL Server with Data

Users often upgrade their SQL Server database technology so as not to miss out on the tech segment and to be at the top of the market. This not only helps an organization manage data easily but also builds its reputation. For such upgrades, users need to migrate SQL Server license from one server to another to continue their services. Now, when users transfer their licence, they need to move the data for a smooth transition to the platform.

This article is going to help users get all their answers as an evolving business requires constant upgrades including licenses. The reasons to migrate a license, key considerations, strategy, and best practices, everything is here. Let’s begin with understanding the license models first for a fresh start.

Understanding SQL Server Licensing Models

Before users move ahead to learn how to transfer SQL Server license, they must have a solid grasp of the SQL Server licensing models. It clears doubts, & makes the entire migration project easier for the users. Users have two model options here that are mentioned below:

• Server + Client Access License (CAL): The authentic and old-school method is this. Admins have to purchase a server license and individual CALs for each user or device trying to access the server.

• Core-Based Licensing: A more practical and modern approach is this one. Here, it’s based on the number of processor cores on a particular server. For high-powered apps and servers, having high-performance requirements, This is the best choice.

Why Migrate SQL Server License?

Now, before we how to transfer Microsoft SQL Server license, users must be aware of all the causes in advance. Mostly this is due to the internal changes of an organization but sometimes, there are indeed some outsider factors.

Server Consolidation: Sometimes, SQL Admins like to consolidate multiple servers into one to make it one powerful server for bigger operations. Analyzing the licensing needs carefully and you can even reuse some of the existing licenses.

Hardware Upgrades: Whenever users upgrade their server hardware with more powerful components, they get a gap for upgrading the SQL version as well. For this, users need to move the licenses also to the new server.

Decommissioning: Whenever an SQL Server is decommissioned, we must understand that before decommissioning, users need to transfer the license rights to another server. This helps them utilize the license 100%.

Cloud Migration: Due to technical requirements, users need to move towards Azure SQL Managed Instance from regular offline SQL Server databases. Thus, they need to acquire appropriate licenses for smooth operations.

Also Read: Copy Table from One Database to Another – Top 4 Ways

Key Considerations to Transfer SQL Server License to New Server

Now, that we know the reasons and licensing models, it’s time that we proceed toward the key considerations. It helps in eliminating unwanted threats & potential risk factors. Without some key steps, planning, and considerations, it won’t be easy for any user.

Compliance:

• Firstly, users need to adhere to the licensing terms of the Microsoft SQL Server throughout the entire migration process.
• There can be legal counter-actions and penalties for failing to meet the compliance requirements as stated.
• Always stay updated with the latest migration license changes as per Microsoft notifications.

Planning and Execution:

• Always plan the entire migration plan in advance to make it smooth. No matter if it’s just the license or the entire database, advanced planning always helps.
• Always involve key stakeholders for their guidance. It can include active IT managers, database administrators, and legal counsel.
• Before switching to the new server, always test the entire server if it’s working as it should be with the full load.

Revenue and Cost Factor:

• Make sure to go through all possible factors in order to minimize the cost to the maximum.
• Here, downgrade rights, consolidating licenses, exploring cloud-based licensing, etc everything is included for better workflow.

License and Inventory Assessment:

• Before migration, always go through the existing inventory of the instances and licenses.
• Make sure to note the edition, version, and licensing model for each instance for further statistics & documentation.
• Always determine the requirement of new licences after assessing the current licenses to not overpower the server.

Strategies to Move SQL Server License to New Server

Let’s understand the strategies that can help users move their licenses from one SQL Server to another. These strategies can help users to optimize the licenses during the migration operation without hassles.

Maximise License Mobility – Admins must check out for license mobilization options within their own organizations first. By adhering to the rules and regulations, users can re-deploy the license to new servers as per their requirements.

Leverage Downgrade Rights – Leveraging the downgrade rights is one crucial for users having software assurance. This way users can opt for a lower edition of SQL Server on the new server to reduce cost effectively.

Utilize Software Assurance Benefits – Do not miss out on the advantages offered by software assurance. Latest server access, development and testing rights, and availability for Microsoft support that can be helpful during the migration task.

Third-Party Solution to Transfer Data: In case, users want to transfer the data as well, SysTools SQL Migration Tool is what they need. It has a total of four migration modes to migrate SQL Server license to a new server.

License Management Tools – License management tools can of course simplify the entire operation. Moreover, tracking and managing the licences becomes easier with these solutions for sure.

Migrate SQL Server License with these Best Practices

Following the best practices, users can easily execute the entire operation without any hassles. However, missing out on any of the key aspects here might result in a negative way later for users.

• Try to get a Team with Experienced Microsoft Partners specifically in licensing and migration domains. Such experienced Microsoft partners can assist admins in navigating the complexities.
• Always Keep the Documentation Crisp throughout the migration operation. License agreements, inventory records, plans, etc documents are included in this. Audits and troubleshooting can be made easier with this documentation.
• Always select the Right Tools & Techniques to avoid any failures or obstructions in between the license migration task.

Conclusion

Finally, after understanding how to transfer or migrate SQL Server license from one server to another, we’re here at the end. Whether it is about moving the license or the entire database with all data in it, it’s possible. The only thing to keep in mind is to just be right on the technique and have a calm and composed attitude towards the entire operation.