Microsoft SQL Server 2019 Standard 16 Cores | Ultimate RDBMS, Big Data Clusters & Performance

Original Release Date: November 4, 2019
License Type: Perpetual / Lifetime Activation (16 Cores)
Platform: Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016 & Linux (RHEL, Ubuntu, SUSE)

About the Product

Microsoft SQL Server 2019 Standard is a industry-leading relational database management system (RDBMS) designed to handle the data challenges of the modern professional environment. This 16-Core license is the ultimate choice for businesses that need to acquire high-performance data processing without the complexity of per-user tracking. It introduces Big Data Clusters, allowing you to manage large-scale data environments that include both structured and unstructured data. By integrating Apache Spark and Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS), SQL Server 2019 enables you to unlock intelligence over all your data, transforming it into actionable insights with built-in AI and machine learning capabilities.

The Problem It Solves

Fragmented data across different silos and platforms often prevents businesses from seeing the "big picture." SQL Server 2019 Standard solves this by providing a unified data platform. It allows you to obtain a single view of your data through data virtualization, querying external databases like Oracle, MongoDB, and Teradata without moving or copying data. This version is designed to get your applications running faster with Intelligent Query Processing and ensures your most sensitive information is protected with advanced security features like Transparent Data Encryption (TDE), which is now included in the Standard edition.

Key Features Defining Professional Data Productivity

16-Core Scaling & Performance

This license allows your database engine to acquire and utilize up to 16 physical CPU cores. It is optimized for multi-core hardware, ensuring you get maximum throughput and reduced latency for high-transaction workloads and complex analytical queries.

Intelligent Query Processing (IQP)

Unlock massive performance gains with no code changes. IQP improves the execution speed of queries by learning from previous executions and adjusting memory grants and join types on the fly, allowing you to obtain enterprise-level speed on standard hardware.

Built-in Security & Compliance

SQL Server 2019 is the ultimate secure database. With Always Encrypted (with secure enclaves) and TDE, your data remains encrypted even while in use. This helps you acquire compliance with global standards like GDPR and HIPAA.

Cross-Platform & Container Support

Experience true flexibility. You can get SQL Server 2019 running on Windows, Linux, or Docker containers. This allows development teams to unlock consistent environments across different platforms, from local development to cloud-scale production.

Data Virtualization with PolyBase

Stop the "Extract, Transform, Load" (ETL) nightmare. Use PolyBase to obtain data from external sources directly via T-SQL, making it easier than ever to acquire a complete view of your business intelligence.

Microsoft SQL Server 2019 Standard FAQ

Is this a per-core or per-user license?

This is a Per-Core license for 16 cores. The primary advantage is that it allows for unlimited users and devices to connect to the database. You do not need to acquire separate Client Access Licenses (CALs), making it the ultimate choice for public-facing websites or large internal teams.

Can I upgrade an Evaluation version with this key?

Yes. You can get your evaluation instance upgraded to a full licensed version without reinstalling. Simply run the Setup.exe from the installation media, go to Maintenance, and select Edition Upgrade to enter your 16-core key.

Does it support Linux and Docker?

Absolutely. SQL Server 2019 Standard is built to unlock high performance on both Windows and Linux. You can deploy it in a Docker container to obtain a lightweight, portable database environment for microservices.

What is the database size limit?

Unlike the Express version, SQL Server 2019 Standard allows you to acquire massive data storage. The database size limit is 524 Petabytes, ensuring you will never get constrained by data volume as your business grows.

How to Download & Install SQL Server 2019 Standard

Download the software from the official Microsoft Evaluation Center or the Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC).
Run the installer and select "New SQL Server stand-alone installation".
When prompted for the license, select "Enter the product key" and type in your 16-core license key.
Follow the setup wizard to select your features (Database Engine, Analysis Services, etc.) and complete the installation.
Launch SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) to unlock and manage your new database instance.