Understanding SQL Server 2014 Standard Pricing for Dev

As a developer, understanding the pricing of SQL Server 2014 Standard can be overwhelming. However, this article is here to help you navigate through the pricing options and guide you towards making an informed decision.

What is SQL Server 2014 Standard?

SQL Server 2014 Standard is a relational database management system developed by Microsoft. It is designed to provide robust data management capabilities to small and medium-sized businesses.

SQL Server 2014 Standard is available in two editions: Standard and Enterprise. The Standard edition is the most commonly used edition, while the Enterprise edition is designed for larger organizations with more complex data management needs.

Understanding SQL Server 2014 Standard Pricing

When it comes to SQL Server 2014 Standard pricing, there are a few things to consider. These include:

Licensing

SQL Server 2014 Standard is licensed per core. This means that you will need to purchase a license for every core that your server has. However, there is a minimum requirement of four core licenses per server.

You can also choose between two licensing models: Server + CAL or Core-based licensing. Server + CAL licensing requires you to purchase a license for each server and a client access license (CAL) for each user or device that accesses the server. Core-based licensing, on the other hand, requires you to purchase a license for every core that your server has.

Software Assurance

Software Assurance is an optional add-on for SQL Server 2014 Standard. It provides access to new software releases and other benefits, such as training and support. Software Assurance is typically purchased as an annual subscription.

SQL Server 2014 Standard Pricing Options

Now that you understand the factors that affect SQL Server 2014 Standard pricing, let’s take a look at the different pricing options available:

Server + CAL

With Server + CAL licensing, you purchase a license for each server and a CAL for each user or device that accesses the server. The server license cost is $3,717, while the CAL cost is $209 per user or device.

For example, if you have a server with 16 cores and 100 users accessing it, you would need to purchase 16 core licenses ($59,472) and 100 CALs ($20,900), bringing the total cost to $80,372.

Core-based Licensing

With core-based licensing, you purchase a license for every core that your server has. The cost per core license is $1,859.

For example, if you have a server with 16 cores, you would need to purchase 16 core licenses ($29,744).

Software Assurance

The cost of Software Assurance varies depending on the licensing option that you choose. For Server + CAL licensing, the cost is 25% of the server license cost per year. For core-based licensing, the cost is 25% of the core license cost per year.

Using the previous examples, if you chose to purchase Software Assurance for your 16-core server with 100 users accessing it, the annual cost would be $17,618 ($59,472 x 25% for Server + CAL licensing) or $7,436 ($29,744 x 25% for core-based licensing).

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about SQL Server 2014 Standard pricing:

Can I purchase SQL Server 2014 Standard without Software Assurance?

Yes, you can purchase SQL Server 2014 Standard without Software Assurance. However, keep in mind that without Software Assurance, you will not have access to new software releases or other benefits such as training and support.

What if I have multiple servers?

If you have multiple servers, you will need to purchase a license for each server. However, you may be eligible for volume licensing discounts.

What if I need more than 16 cores?

If you need more than 16 cores, you will need to purchase additional core licenses. Keep in mind that there is a minimum requirement of four core licenses per server.

Conclusion

SQL Server 2014 Standard pricing can be complex, but by understanding the factors that affect it and the pricing options available, you can make an informed decision that best suits your organization’s needs and budget. Whether you choose Server + CAL licensing or core-based licensing, with or without Software Assurance, SQL Server 2014 Standard provides a robust and reliable data management solution that will help your organization achieve its goals.