- To help modernize applications, Software Assurance gives you access to the latest Windows Server and SQL Server innovation at no additional cost. The next version of Windows Server is currently in planning, and will further advance the Windows Server 2016 capabilities around hybrid cloud, multi-layered security, containers, Nano Server, and software-defined datacenter technology. The next version of SQL Server, already available in preview, brings the performance and security of SQL Server to Linux.
- For applications moving to the cloud, Software Assurance provides unique flexibility and savings benefits. The Azure Hybrid Use Benefit provides up to 40-50% savings on Windows Server virtual machines in Azure. Similarly, License Mobility provides the flexibility to deploy existing SQL Server licenses in the cloud without additional fees.
Get Microsoft’s Windows Server and SQL Server Premium Assurance for long-term confidence
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Microsoft is looking to ease the life of IT administrators suffering through the slog of a company transition to the cloud and worrying about support by introducing the company’s new Windows Server Premium Assurance and SQL Server Premium Assurance.
The new offerings not only offer extended support for Windows Server and SQL Server by six years but greater flexibility when purchasing server solutions as IT Pros can nab either separately or together starting in early 2017.
According to Microsoft, early buyers could save up to 60% on the cost of Premium Assurance as the rates will increase over time. Premium Assurance pricing begins at 5% of the product license and will go as high as 12% over time.
The first batch of supported Servers includes Server 2008 and 2008 R2 Extended Support is scheduled to end in July 2019 however.
Once again, Windows Server Premium Assurance and SQL Premium Assurance will be available sometime early time in 2017. Until the release of the new products, Microsoft is encouraging customers to continue to renew their Software Assurance on all Windows and SQL Servers.
