How does SQL Server licensing under the IaaS model work for end-of-life versions ?

$@chin 335 Reputation points

Specifically, if I have SQL Server 2016 or 2019 running on Azure virtual machines (IaaS) with different licensing models - such as with Azure Hybrid Benefit enabled and without it (using pay-as-you-go for Standard or Enterprise editions) - how is extended support handled ?

  • Will these SQL Server versions automatically receive extended security updates (ESUs) as part of the Azure or SQL offering ?
  • Or is a separate/additional license or agreement required to continue receiving support and security updates after the end-of-support date ?
  • How does the process differ based on whether the license is provided via AHB or through Azure’s native pay-as-you-go model ?

Looking to understand the cost and compliance and updates implications for running older SQL Server versions under different licensing configurations in Azure IaaS.

  1. Mahesh Kurva 10,520 Reputation points • Microsoft External Staff • Moderator

    Hi $@chin,

    Just checking in to see if the below answer provided by @Alberto Morillo helped.

    If this answers your query, do click Accept Answer and Yes for was this answer helpful. And, if you have any further query do let us know.

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Answer accepted by question author

Alberto Morillo 35,506 Reputation points • MVP • Volunteer Moderator

If you're running SQL Server 2016 or 2019 on Azure Virtual Machines (VMs), Microsoft provides a unique benefit when it comes to Extended Security Updates (ESUs). Typically, after the end of Mainstream or Extended Support, older SQL Server versions stop receiving security patches unless you purchase ESUs. However, when these older SQL Server versions are hosted in Azure, Microsoft includes ESUs for free automatically and at no additional cost, regardless of your licensing model. This means that whether you’re using Azure Hybrid Benefit (AHB) (bringing your own license) or the pay-as-you-go model (licensing through Azure), you do not need to purchase separate ESUs. The process is the same for both licensing models: ESUs are applied automatically through Azure without any additional configuration.

Please read the following reference for more details.

Reference #1.

  1. Mahesh Kurva 10,520 Reputation points • Microsoft External Staff • Moderator

    Hi $@chin,

    Just checking in to see if the above answer provided by @Alberto Morillo helped.

    If this answers your query, do click Accept Answer and Yes for was this answer helpful. And, if you have any further query do let us know.

  2. $@chin 335 Reputation points

    Hi @Alberto Morillo ,

    Could you please confirm whether Extended Security Updates apply in both of the following scenarios?

    1. A SQL Server VM deployed from the Azure Marketplace with SQL Server pre-installed.
    2. A standard Azure VM where SQL Server has been installed separately after deployment.

    Do ESUs cover both scenarios, or are there any differences in eligibility or licensing requirements ?

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