What Dev Needs to Know About SQL Server 2016 End of Life

Hello Dev, are you aware that SQL Server 2016 is approaching the end of its life? That’s right, the end of life (EOL) for SQL Server 2016 is fast approaching, which means it’s time for you to start planning ahead. In this article, we’ll discuss all you need to know about the SQL Server 2016 EOL, including what it means, why you need to take action, and how to prepare for the future.

What is SQL Server 2016 End of Life?

Before we dive into the details, let’s start with the basics. SQL Server 2016 was released by Microsoft on June 1, 2016, and it has been a popular choice for organizations worldwide. However, like with all software, there comes a time when it reaches the end of its life. The SQL Server 2016 EOL date is July 13, 2021. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide support, security updates, or bug fixes for SQL Server 2016.

Why is End of Life Important?

The end of life for SQL Server 2016 is important because it means that Microsoft will no longer provide support for this version. This means that if you continue to use SQL Server 2016 after the EOL date, your system will be vulnerable to security threats and may become unstable. If you encounter any problems with your SQL Server 2016 system after this date, you won’t be able to get help from Microsoft.

Another thing to consider is that once a software version reaches its EOL, third-party vendors will also stop supporting it. This means that if you use any third-party applications that integrate with SQL Server 2016, they may no longer work properly and could pose security risks.

What are the Risks of Running an End of Life Version of SQL Server 2016?

Running an end of life version of SQL Server 2016 can pose several risks to your organization, such as:

What Are Your Options?

Now that you know what SQL Server 2016 EOL means, it’s time to start thinking about your options. Here are some of the things you can do:

Upgrade to a Newer Version

The most obvious option is to upgrade to a newer version of SQL Server. Microsoft currently supports SQL Server 2017, 2019, and 2022. By upgrading, you’ll benefit from improved security, performance, and features.

Migrate to Azure

If you’re not ready to upgrade to a newer version of SQL Server, another option is to migrate your SQL Server 2016 environment to Azure. This will provide you with extended security updates for SQL Server 2016 for free for up to three years after the EOL date.

Stay on SQL Server 2016

If you’re unable to upgrade or migrate to Azure, you can choose to stay on SQL Server 2016. However, you should be aware of the risks involved and take additional measures to ensure the security and stability of your system.

FAQ

What happens if I continue to use SQL Server 2016 after the EOL date?

If you continue to use SQL Server 2016 after the EOL date, your system will be vulnerable to security threats and may become unstable. If you encounter any problems with your SQL Server 2016 system after this date, you won’t be able to get help from Microsoft.

Will my third-party applications still work with SQL Server 2016 after the EOL date?

If your third-party applications rely on SQL Server 2016, they may not work properly after the EOL date. It’s best to check with your vendors to see if they have plans to support newer versions of SQL Server.

How long will Microsoft provide extended security updates for SQL Server 2016 on Azure?

Microsoft will provide extended security updates for SQL Server 2016 on Azure for up to three years after the EOL date.

Conclusion

The SQL Server 2016 EOL is fast approaching, and it’s essential that you start thinking about your options. By upgrading to a newer version of SQL Server or migrating to Azure, you can ensure the security and stability of your system. If you choose to stay on SQL Server 2016, you should take additional measures to protect your system from security threats and maintain compliance standards. We hope this article has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the future of your SQL Server 2016 environment.