SQL Server (Microsoft)

Microsoft SQL Server is a relational database management system (RDBMS) produced by Microsoft. Its primary query language is T-SQL.

Your database can be hosted centrally on University supported servers. See MSSQL Database Hosting.

The University has purchased SQL Server Device Client Access Licenses (CALs) which cover all current staff, faculty, and students that access databases running SQL Server on University-owned computers.  

If you do not utilize Database Hosting Services, SQL server licenses need to be purchased through our Microsoft Select Plus vendor, CDW-G, on the UMarket site.

    Purchase or Download

    Purchase or Download

    UMN Licenses

    Availability Cost
    Department For installation on a University-owned device Academic discount from UMN Paid for with departmental funds
    Employee For installation on an employee's personal device Free download for Developer Edition only
    Student For installation on a student's personal device Free download for Developer Edition only

    Instructions for Departments

    A University-owned device license for this item can be purchased through the Microsoft Academic Select Plus Program from our reseller, CDWG.

    1. Go to the UMarket site.
    2. Select the Shop Now button. 
    3. Sign in with your UMN internet ID and password.
    4. Scroll to the Electronic Components, A/V, Computer Equipment, Software & Supplies section.
    5. Select the CDW-G icon.
    6. Select the PunchOut link.
    7. On the CDW-G/U Market Ordering Site, scroll to the Popular Microsoft Licensing section.
    8. Select the Microsoft SQL Server link.
    9. Select Standard Edition or Enterprise Edition. Compare them on the Editions and Supported Features of SQL Server page.
    10. You can purchase a license with or without maintenance, called "Software Assurance (SA)." SA is purchased for a three-year term and must be renewed every three years. Select licenses that end in with a -3 only, not -3-1.

    If you require one version back from the most current offering, Microsoft allows for downgrade rights. 

    Please note: Software available through this program is for UMN departments only, not personal purchases. If you have questions about ordering Microsoft software through this program, contact our CDW-G representatives Matt Lubawski at [email protected].

    Instructions for Employees and Students

    A free download of this product is available through the Microsoft Azure Dev Tools for Teaching program.

    Terms and Conditions

    General Technology Products Terms & Conditions apply to this software license. If additional terms and conditions apply to this item, they will be listed below.

    More Information

    This license is perpetual, meaning licensees of this software have the right to ongoing and indefinite use of this particular licensed version of software that cannot be abridged or negated.

    SQL Server licenses include unlimited Client Access Licenses (CALs) at no additional charge.

    Restrictions

    This software is available only as a download.

    Resources

    Campus Resources

    Additional Resources