Database software for servers: licences for database management systems used by businesses that store and process large amounts of data in accounting, online shop or production systems. Most of the products (over 190) are from Microsoft, and Lenovo ISG is also represented. The range suits both a small office server and a larger server environment.
How to choose database software
Edition. Microsoft SQL Server comes in several editions. Standard is often enough for small and medium workloads, while Enterprise is aimed at large systems that need advanced availability and performance features. Check which features your applications actually require before you decide.
Licensing model. You can license by processor cores, or by server plus client access licences (CALs) for users or devices. Core licences are sold in packs of two cores, and each processor needs a minimum of four core licences. When only a few employees use the database, server plus CALs can be simpler, while a large number of users or a public web service usually points to core licensing. Available models depend on the edition and version.
Version and compatibility. Check which version your operating system supports and whether the applications you run, such as accounting or ERP software, work with it. A newer version stays under manufacturer support for longer, but an older application sometimes needs a specific version.
Server configuration. The number of processor cores determines how many licences you need, so count them before buying. In a virtual environment the licensing rules differ from a physical server, so it is worth reading them in advance.
Brands in our range
- Microsoft: the maker of SQL Server, one of the relational database systems most widely used in businesses, which works closely with Windows Server and Azure services.
Also in our range: Lenovo ISG, the server division of Lenovo, with one product in this category.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SQL Server Standard and Enterprise?
Standard is intended for small and medium systems, while Enterprise offers more features for large, always-on databases under heavy load. The exact differences depend on the version, so compare the manufacturer's feature list with your own requirements.
Do I always need CALs?
No, you only need them when licensing by server plus client access. With per-core licensing, separate user CALs are normally not required, because the licence covers connections to that server.
How many core licences does one server need?
You must license every core in the server, with a minimum of four per processor. Core licences come in packs of two, so a server with one eight-core processor would need four packs.
Can I use database software on a virtual server?
Yes, SQL Server is often installed on virtual machines. The licensing rules depend on the edition and licence type, so check before buying that the licence you choose covers your virtualisation setup.
