How to Find SQL Server 2008 R2 License Key

When it comes to upgrading your SQL Server from 2008 to 2008 R2, it's essential to take the right approach to ensure a smooth transition. One critical step in this process is obtaining a valid license key for your new software. In this article, we'll explore how to find your SQL Server 2008 R2 license key and provide some valuable tips to help you navigate the upgrade process.

Before diving into the details of finding your license key, it's crucial to note that upgrading from SQL Server 2008 to 2008 R2 requires careful planning. It's essential to test an in-place upgrade in a test environment before making any changes to your production server. This will help you identify potential issues and avoid costly downtime.

When testing the upgrade process, you may encounter unexpected problems, as we did during our own experience with upgrading from SQL Server 2008 to 2008 R2. In our case, the network guys had to restore a fresh test server from a clone multiple times due to failures caused by arcane reasons. Fortunately, we had taken a VM clone and restored it as a test server first, which allowed us to identify and resolve the issues before attempting the upgrade on our production server.

Now, back to finding your SQL Server 2008 R2 license key. If you have purchased your current SQL Server 2008 with Software Assurance (SA) from most software vendors who sell MS products, then you can upgrade to SQL Server 2008 R2 at no additional cost. However, if you don't have SA or are purchasing a new copy of SQL Server 2008 R2, you'll need to obtain a separate license key for the new product.

To find your SQL Server 2008 R2 license key, follow these steps:

1. Check your existing software assurance agreement: If you have an active Software Assurance agreement with Microsoft, check your agreement details to see if it covers SQL Server 2008 R2.

2. Review your previous purchase documentation: If you purchased your current SQL Server 2008 with SA, review your purchase documentation or contact the vendor who sold you the software to confirm whether your existing license key can be used for the upgrade.

3. Contact Microsoft support: If you're unsure about your license key or need assistance with obtaining one, reach out to Microsoft support for guidance.

In conclusion, finding your SQL Server 2008 R2 license key is a crucial step in upgrading from SQL Server 2008. By following the steps outlined above and taking a cautious approach when testing the upgrade process, you can ensure a successful transition to SQL Server 2008 R2.

How to find sql server 2008 r2 license key