SQL Server Runtime is a licensing option provided by Microsoft for organizations that want to use the Microsoft SQL Server database software for specific applications but don’t require full SQL Server licenses. The key difference between SQL Server Runtime and regular SQL Server licenses lies in the licensing model, features, and use cases.
Here are the main differences between SQL Server Runtime and regular SQL Server licenses:
1. Licensing Model:
– SQL Server Runtime: With SQL Server Runtime, you purchase licenses based on the number of processors (or cores) that are used by the server where SQL Server is installed. This licensing model is often more cost-effective for smaller applications or scenarios where you have a fixed number of users.
– Regular SQL Server: Regular SQL Server licenses can be based on different models, including per core and per user or device. The licensing model can vary depending on the edition of SQL Server you choose (Standard, Enterprise, etc.).
2. Use Cases:
– SQL Server Runtime: SQL Server Runtime licenses are designed for specific use cases where the organization needs to run a single application using SQL Server as the database backend. It’s particularly suitable for applications that are not intended for use as general-purpose databases across the organization.
– Regular SQL Server: Regular SQL Server licenses provide more flexibility and are suitable for a wide range of use cases, from small applications to large-scale enterprise databases. They offer a broader feature set and are designed to support diverse workloads and scenarios.
3. Features:
– SQL Server Runtime: SQL Server Runtime licenses usually provide a subset of features compared to the full SQL Server editions. The exact features included can depend on the specific edition of SQL Server Runtime you choose.
– Regular SQL Server: Regular SQL Server licenses provide access to the full set of features available in the chosen edition, such as advanced security features, high availability options, business intelligence tools, and more.
4. Scalability:
– SQL Server Runtime: SQL Server Runtime is often more suitable for smaller applications with a limited number of users or cores. It’s not designed for scenarios that require significant scalability and high-performance capabilities.
– Regular SQL Server: Regular SQL Server licenses provide more scalability options and can handle larger and more complex workloads.
5. Cost Considerations:
– SQL Server Runtime: SQL Server Runtime licenses can be cost-effective for specific use cases, as you only pay for the processors or cores that your application uses.
– Regular SQL Server: Regular SQL Server licenses can have higher upfront costs due to the broader feature set and flexibility they offer.
SQL Server Runtime is designed for specific applications with modest requirements that don’t need the full capabilities of regular SQL Server licenses. Regular SQL Server licenses are more suitable for a wide range of applications, including enterprise-grade databases with complex workloads and scalability needs. It’s important to carefully evaluate your organization’s requirements and licensing options to choose the solution that best fits your needs.