Buy genuine SQL Server keys at Bcdkey for SQL Server 2022, 2019 and 2016 Standard. Each key unlocks the full Standard edition on one server as a one-time purchase, delivered instantly by email with easy installation steps.
Buy SQL Server Keys Online
Microsoft SQL Server is the database platform behind thousands of ERP, accounting, CRM, point-of-sale and line-of-business applications. A genuine SQL Server Standard key lets you run those applications on your own server, without the 10 GB database limit of the free Express edition and without a monthly subscription.
Bcdkey offers SQL Server 2022, 2019 and 2016 Standard keys, each delivered instantly by email and entered during setup. Choose the version your software requires, or SQL Server 2022 Standard for a new server.
Which SQL Server Version Should You Buy?
All three Standard editions share the same limits: up to 24 cores or 4 sockets and 128 GB of buffer pool memory per instance. The differences are features and support status:
| Version | Support status | Key features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| SQL Server 2022 Standard | Fully supported | Ledger tables, Query Store on by default, S3 backup, Azure link | New servers |
| SQL Server 2019 Standard | Security updates continue | Accelerated Database Recovery, UTF-8, Linux support | Software certified for 2019 |
| SQL Server 2016 Standard | No longer supported | In-Memory OLTP, columnstore, Always Encrypted | Legacy systems only |
For a new database server, SQL Server 2022 Standard is the version to buy. Choose 2019 or 2016 only when your application vendor requires that specific version.
SQL Server Standard vs Express vs Enterprise
Standard is the edition most small and medium-sized businesses need:
| Edition | Database size | Compute | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express | 10 GB per database | Limited cores and memory | Small apps and learning |
| Standard | 524 PB | Up to 24 cores, 128 GB buffer pool | Business applications |
| Enterprise | 524 PB | Operating system maximum | Large, mission-critical workloads |
If your software has outgrown Express or your vendor requires a full edition, SQL Server Standard delivers reporting, backups, basic availability groups and strong security at a fraction of Enterprise cost.
Why Buy SQL Server from Bcdkey?
Buying a SQL Server key here is simple:
- Genuine SQL Server 2022, 2019 and 2016 Standard keys
- One-time purchase with no subscription
- Instant delivery by email, with every key saved in your account
- Clear installation and edition upgrade instructions
- Support if setup does not accept your key
- Volume options for businesses through our B2B program
How to Install SQL Server with Your Key
- Download the installation media for your SQL Server version from Microsoft.
- Run setup and choose New SQL Server standalone installation.
- On the Product Key page, enter your Bcdkey key to install the Standard edition.
- Select features such as Database Engine Services, configure the instance and install.
- Install the latest cumulative update and SQL Server Management Studio.
Already running the Evaluation or Developer edition? Open SQL Server Installation Center, choose Maintenance > Edition Upgrade and enter your key to switch to Standard without reinstalling.
SQL Server Licensing Basics
Each key unlocks SQL Server Standard for one server installation. Microsoft licenses Standard edition either per core or under the Server plus Client Access License (CAL) model, so depending on your setup, users or devices may also need CALs. If you are unsure what your deployment needs, our support team can help.
Pair SQL Server with Windows Server
SQL Server runs best on a dedicated server. Many customers pair it with Windows Server 2022 Standard, and you can find Windows Server editions, Remote Desktop CALs and more in our Server category.
Delivery and Support
Keys are delivered by email and stored in My Account. Follow any order with Track Order, and if setup does not accept your key, open a support ticket. Licensing several servers? The Bcdkey B2B wholesale program handles volume orders.
FAQ About SQL Server Keys
Are these genuine SQL Server keys?
Yes. Every key in this category is a genuine Microsoft product key for SQL Server Standard.
Which SQL Server version should I buy?
Choose SQL Server 2022 Standard for new servers, 2019 when your software is certified for it, and 2016 only for legacy systems.
How many cores does SQL Server Standard support?
Up to the lesser of 4 sockets or 24 cores, with 128 GB of buffer pool memory per instance.
Can I upgrade from SQL Server Express or Evaluation?
Yes. Use Edition Upgrade in SQL Server Installation Center and enter your Standard key.
Do I need CALs for SQL Server?
Under the Server plus CAL model, each user or device that accesses SQL Server needs a CAL.
How fast is delivery?
Keys are delivered by email, typically instantly after your order is confirmed.