Greetings Dev! If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide on SQL Server Get Version, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll cover everything from the basics to advanced topics, including common use cases, examples, and FAQs.
What is SQL Server Get Version?
At its most basic level, SQL Server Get Version is a command that retrieves the version number of Microsoft SQL Server. This version number is typically used to identify the version and edition of SQL Server being used, which in turn may be used to determine compatibility with other software, hardware, or services.
When you run the SQL Server Get Version command, you’ll receive a four-part version number in the following format: major.minor.build.revision. Each of these components provides useful information about the SQL Server installation:
Component |
Description |
---|---|
Major |
The major version number of SQL Server. This number typically changes with major updates or new releases. |
Minor |
The minor version number of SQL Server. This number typically changes with minor updates or service packs. |
Build |
The build number of SQL Server. This number typically changes with hotfixes or cumulative updates. |
Revision |
The revision number of SQL Server. This number typically changes with security updates or bug fixes. |
How to Use SQL Server Get Version
Using SQL Server Get Version is simple. All you need to do is open up an instance of SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or connect to the target SQL Server instance using another database tool or programming language, and run the following command:
SELECT @@VERSION;
This will return a string containing the version number and other useful information:
Microsoft SQL Server 2019 (RTM-CU10) (KB5001090) - 15.0.4138.2 (X64)Mar 22 2021 23:17:58Copyright (C) 2019 Microsoft CorporationStandard Edition (64-bit) on Windows Server 2019 Standard 10.0 <X64> (Build 17763: )
Using SQL Server Get Version in Scripts
If you’re working with SQL Server in a script or programming language like PowerShell, Python, or .NET, you can use the same command to retrieve the version information. Here’s an example using PowerShell:
$sql = "SELECT @@VERSION;"$connection = New-Object System.Data.SqlClient.SqlConnection("Server=$server;Database=$database;User Id=$user;Password=$password;")$connection.Open()$command = New-Object System.Data.SqlClient.SqlCommand($sql, $connection)$version = $command.ExecuteScalar()$connection.Close()
In this example, we first define the SQL command as a string, then create a new instance of the SqlConnection object using a connection string. We then open the connection, create a new instance of the SqlCommand object using the SQL command and connection, and execute the command using the ExecuteScalar method. Finally, we close the connection and retrieve the version information in the $version variable.
Common Use Cases for SQL Server Get Version
SQL Server Get Version is a useful command in a variety of scenarios, including:
1. Checking Compatibility with Other Software
Many software products and services require a specific version or edition of SQL Server to function properly. By using SQL Server Get Version, you can quickly determine whether your SQL Server installation meets the requirements for a particular product or service.
2. Upgrading or Migrating SQL Server
When upgrading or migrating SQL Server, it’s important to understand the version and edition of the current installation, as well as the version and edition requirements of the new installation. SQL Server Get Version can help you ensure a smooth transition by providing this information upfront.
3. Troubleshooting SQL Server Issues
If you’re experiencing issues with SQL Server, knowing the version and edition number can be helpful in diagnosing and resolving the issue. This information can also be useful in communicating with support or other IT professionals who may be assisting with the issue.
Advanced Topics for SQL Server Get Version
1. Getting Detailed Information About SQL Server Components
If you need more detailed information about the SQL Server components installed on a particular server, you can use the SERVERPROPERTY function. This function returns various properties of the current SQL Server instance, including the version number and build number, as well as other information like the SQL Server edition, processor architecture, and server name.
SELECTSERVERPROPERTY('Edition') AS Edition,SERVERPROPERTY('ProductVersion') AS ProductVersion,SERVERPROPERTY('ProductLevel') AS ProductLevel,SERVERPROPERTY('ProcessorCount') AS ProcessorCount,SERVERPROPERTY('Collation') AS Collation;
This command returns the following information:
Edition |
ProductVersion |
ProductLevel |
ProcessorCount |
Collation |
---|---|---|---|---|
Standard Edition |
15.0.4138.2 |
RTM-CU10 |
2 |
SQL_Latin1_General_CP1_CI_AS |
2. Comparing SQL Server Versions
If you need to compare SQL Server versions, you can use the following table to match the SQL Server version number to the corresponding major release:
Version |
Release Name |
Major Version |
---|---|---|
8.0 |
SQL Server 2000 |
8 |
9.0 |
SQL Server 2005 |
9 |
10.0 |
SQL Server 2008 |
10 |
10.5 |
SQL Server 2008 R2 |
10 |
11.0 |
SQL Server 2012 |
11 |
12.0 |
SQL Server 2014 |
12 |
13.0 |
SQL Server 2016 |
13 |
14.0 |
SQL Server 2017 |
14 |
15.0 |
SQL Server 2019 |
15 |
3. Retrieving SQL Server Build Numbers
If you need to retrieve the build number of SQL Server, you can use the following command:
SELECT SERVERPROPERTY('ProductBuild');
This will return a string containing the build number:
15.0.4138.2
You can then use this build number to determine the most recent hotfix or cumulative update applied to the SQL Server instance.
FAQ
What is the latest version of SQL Server?
As of this writing, the latest version of SQL Server is SQL Server 2019. You can use SQL Server Get Version to determine the exact version and edition of your SQL Server installation.
How do I upgrade my SQL Server installation?
The process for upgrading your SQL Server installation will vary depending on the version and edition you’re currently running, as well as the version and edition you want to upgrade to. Generally, the process involves downloading the upgrade installer from Microsoft, running the installer, and following the prompts to upgrade your SQL Server instance. Before upgrading, it’s always a good idea to back up your databases and test the upgrade process in a non-production environment.
How do I know if my SQL Server instance is up to date?
You can use SQL Server Get Version to determine the current version and build number of your SQL Server instance, then compare that number to the most recent version available from Microsoft. Microsoft provides a list of the most recent builds for each version and edition of SQL Server on their website, along with instructions for downloading and installing updates.
Can I run multiple versions of SQL Server on the same machine?
Yes, it is possible to install and run multiple versions of SQL Server on the same machine. However, you’ll need to be careful to avoid compatibility issues and resource conflicts. Make sure to install each instance in its own directory, use different service and login accounts for each instance, and configure each instance to use a different set of ports.
What is the difference between SQL Server Express and Standard editions?
SQL Server Express is a free, entry-level version of SQL Server that is limited in a number of ways. For example, SQL Server Express is limited to using one CPU, 1 GB of RAM, and a maximum database size of 10 GB. Standard edition, on the other hand, offers more advanced features and is designed for use in production environments. Standard edition is also available in different editions, such as Enterprise and Web, which offer additional features and scalability options.
What is a SQL Server service pack?
A SQL Server service pack is a collection of updates, bug fixes, and security patches that are released after the initial release of a version of SQL Server. Service packs are typically released on a regular cadence, such as every few months or once a year, and are designed to provide a more stable and secure SQL Server environment.
Conclusion
SQL Server Get Version is a powerful and important command for anyone working with SQL Server. By using this command, you can quickly and easily retrieve the version number and other useful information about your SQL Server installation. Whether you’re a developer, DBA, or IT professional, understanding how to use SQL Server Get Version is essential for maintaining and troubleshooting SQL Server environments.