What Ms Sql license do i need?

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Hi All

We need to get a copy of MS SQL 2005 Standard Edition for our webserver.

What license do I need, I don't really understand all the different versions and license options.

Any help is appreciated

Thanks
Aaron
 
There are basically 2 options. Per Processor and Per Seat. The main question should be "How many people are going to connect to this database?" If the answer is a small number, then you probably want per seat licensing where you buy a server license for each box you're running the server on, and then a client access license (CAL) for each client. If you're letting the internet connect, you probably want a per processor. Here, you need a license for each physical cpu in the server.

If it's a webserver, that implies you're letting the internet connect, and you'll want a per cpu license.
 
from what i understand it works in the following way

Per Seat, needs a server license + cal license for each seat

Per Processor, needs only a 'sql processor' license for each processor, i did investigate if a sql 'server' license was needed too and was told no by MS licensing


Since you dont want to have to buy a CAL for every seat (i.e. 'unique visitor') that connects to your site you most definately need a processor license
 
Actually there are three licencing models for SQL 2005.

Microsoft said:
SQL Server 2005 Licensing

SQL Server is available under three licensing options:

Processor Licensing Model. Under this model, a license is required for each physical or virtual processor accessed by an operating system environment running SQL Server. This license does not require any device or user client access licenses (CALs).

Server plus Device CALs. Under this model, a server license is required for each operating system environment running an instance of SQL Server, as well as a CAL for each client device that accesses a system running SQL Server.

Server plus User CALs. Under this model, a server license is required for each operating system environment running an instance of SQL Server, as well as a CAL for each user that accesses a system running SQL Server.

As you have a high client to server ratio, a per processor licence is the best way forward, although an expensive route.

Burnsy
 
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