In our first post, we looked at how to identify the right time to upgrade your SQL Server. This post addresses the compatibility between operating systems and SQL Server versions required to upgrade.
There are thousands of SQL Server 2012 installations running, just waiting to be upgraded to the latest version. And while upgrades can be complex, the absence of a common overlap between supported, mainstream operating systems and SQL Server versions can complicate things even further. Running legacy infrastructure is costly and adds security risks to your environment. Microsoft no longer supports SQL Server 2012, so many administrators are forced to create a migration plan.
As of SQL Server 2022, the only available compatible operating system is a 64-bit platform. Because cross-platform upgrades aren’t supported, you can’t upgrade a 32-bit instance of SQL Server to a native 64-bit instance using the SQL Server Setup. That said, it is possible to do a backup and restore—or a detach and reattach—to a new SQL Server 64-bit instance, as long as you don’t publish the database during replication.
2012 to 2022: A Logical Step
Increased compatibility makes SQL Server 2022 a logical step on your upgrade path to the latest version of SQL Server. It’s an ideal stop mid-migration or for as long as your business needs require it.
SQL Server 2022 supports upgrades from the following versions:
- SQL Server 2012 (11.x) SP4 or later
- SQL Server 2014 (12.x) SP3 or later
- SQL Server 2016 (13.x) SP3 or later
- SQL Server 2017 (14.x)
- SQL Server 2019 (15.x)
You’ll still have to watch for certain things like ensuring you have .NET Framework 4.7.2 installed. If SQL Server is a mid-migration stepping stone on your way to SQL Server 2019—but you’re considering staying with 2022 for any production usage—make sure that you’ve installed all service packs.
Before upgrading, review the list of compatible operating systems for SQL Server 2022.
All migration projects, including SQL migrations, can be complex. Pure Professional Services offers workshops and migration services to help you plan and execute these projects. Our migration services provide proven and cost-effective methods, processes, and tools.
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