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Version comparison

SQL Server 2022 vs 2025

Licensing is identical in both releases: per-core with a four-core minimum per instance, or Server + CAL for Standard edition when every user can be counted. SQL Server 2025 is the AI-era release — native vector data type and vector indexes, a native JSON type, and built-in REST/AI model integration — while 2022 focuses on Azure-connected features such as Synapse Link and managed disaster recovery. Choose 2025 for new builds; 2022 remains fully supported until January 2033.

Last reviewed by MSLicenseHub Licensing Desk on 2026-08-24.

SQL Server 2022 vs SQL Server 2025: full comparison

SQL Server 2022 vs SQL Server 2025
AttributeSQL Server 2022SQL Server 2025
General availabilityNovember 20222025
Mainstream support ends11 January 20282030
Extended support ends11 January 20332035
Licensing modelsPer-core, or Server + CAL (Standard)Per-core, or Server + CAL (Standard)
Minimum core licences4 per instance, sold in 2-core packs4 per instance, sold in 2-core packs
Unlimited virtualisationEnterprise + Software AssuranceEnterprise + Software Assurance
Free passive secondary1 with active SA1 with active SA
Native vector type / vector indexNoYes
Native JSON data typeJSON stored as textNative JSON type and indexes
AI model integrationExternal calls onlyBuilt-in REST / embedding model calls
Azure Synapse LinkYesYes
Ledger / immutable tablesYesYes
Managed disaster recovery to AzureYesYes
SQL Server 2022 and 2025 share one licensing model. The gap is capability: 2025 adds AI/vector and JSON engine features, 2022 remains the Azure-hybrid baseline.

Which one should you buy?

Choose SQL Server 2025 if

You want in-database vector search and AI model calls, native JSON storage, or the longest support window on a perpetual purchase.

Stay on SQL Server 2022 if

Your ISV certifies 2022 only, or you already hold 2022 core licences without Software Assurance — extended support runs to January 2033.

Licensing does not change

Both versions use the same rules: four core licences minimum per instance, two-core packs, Enterprise required for unlimited virtualisation, and one free passive secondary replica with active Software Assurance.

Frequently asked questions

Does SQL Server 2025 change the licensing model?

No. Per-core licensing with a four-core minimum per instance and the Server + CAL option for Standard edition both carry over unchanged from SQL Server 2022.

Can I upgrade from SQL Server 2022 to 2025 for free?

Only with active Software Assurance or a subscription licence. SA grants new-version rights; without it you must buy 2025 licences.

When must I use per-core instead of Server + CAL?

Per-core is required whenever users are anonymous or uncountable — public web applications, customer portals, or any internet-facing workload. Server + CAL is only available on Standard edition.

Is Server + CAL still available for SQL Server 2025?

Yes, for Standard edition. Enterprise edition is per-core only, and per-core is the only model that scales without counting users or devices.

Go deeper

sql server licensing hub →Knowledge base →Licensing FAQ →

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