When was the last time you’ve upgraded your SQL server? Are you one of those people who ignore software updates because they take too much time, effort or both? Or maybe you are afraid of losing the features you are used to?
Whatever reasons you’ve had before for ignoring regular updates should all go out the door if you work with SQL Server 2008 or SQL Server 2008 R2. Microsoft has declared the end of support for these versions. Accordingly, the security of your data may be compromised starting July 9, 2019.
So what are the benefits of upgrading your SQL server today?
#1. Security Reasons
When it comes to SQL Server 2008 or SQL Server 2008 R2, it’s obvious that you have to make an upgrade. However, if you have the 2012 version, is the upgrade really necessary? Even though each of the older versions of SQL server besides the one released in 2008 still gets support.
In order to get the best security options from your SQL server, it’s a good idea to invest time and effort in getting the latest update.
#2. New Features
Each version of the SQL server comes with numerous new features as well as fixes for any downsides the previous versions experience. According to software development experts from MiroPoint, upgrades are designed to make a user’s life simpler while placing the software at the highest level possible.
Failing to get an upgrade may not hinder the way your business is functioning, but it could keep you from taking a step forward. In the world where competition is fierce, failing to take advantage of new tools can spell disaster.
#3. Old Bugs
Each software comes with its own set of bugs, which are usually discovered at the most unexpected times. Software developers are working hard trying to eliminate these problems in each new update and upgrade.
By ignoring what the software provider has to offer, you are leaving bugs intact. Even if you’ve been working with the same SQL server version for many years, you never know what surprises it may bring. In order to avoid them, it’s important to make timely updates and upgrades.
#4. Maintenance
The maintenance of the 2008 version ends in 2019. If you have newer versions of SQL Server, it doesn’t mean the end of maintenance isn’t nearing. For the fairly new versions, the maintenance end is looming as well.
- SQL Server 2012 – 12 July 2022
- SQL Server 2014 – 9 July 2024
If you don’t want to keep thinking about the upcoming end of maintenance, it’s better to do an upgrade as soon as the new version appears.
#5. Easy Switch
Upgrading your SQL server is easier than you think. Microsoft has made it easy for its clients to make the switch fairly painlessly. Whether you are taking advantage of managed IT services or planning to make an upgrade on your own, you can get clear instructions from the provider.
Upgrades are structured to take as little of the user’s time is possible, keeping the possibility of a mistake to a minimum. You can get extensive instructions in text or video format on Microsoft’s website.
Many users opt out of upgrades due to financial reasons. After all, a new version of SQL Server starts at about $200. However, the benefits you get from the upgrade can lead to a considerable ROI.
If you aren’t sure whether you need a SQL Server upgrade, pay special attention to the features offered by each version. If you are thinking of upgrading the server today, you may want to wait a couple of months for the 2019 version to be released.