Download Microsoft SQL Server 2016 for Free

Microsoft has made it possible for developers to download SQL Server 2016 for free, including its Developer Edition and Evaluation Edition. In this article, we will explore the different options available for downloading SQL Server 2016, along with their features and limitations.

Sample Databases for SQL Server 2016

Before we dive into the download options, it's worth noting that Microsoft has provided sample databases for SQL Server 2016, including WideWorldImporters and AdventureWorks. These samples are designed to help developers get started with the new version of SQL Server and can be downloaded from the Microsoft website.

Download Options for SQL Server 2016

There are two main options available for downloading SQL Server 2016: Evaluation Edition and Developer Edition. The Evaluation Edition is a limited trial version that can be used for free, but it has a time limit of 180 days. This edition is ideal for evaluating the new features of SQL Server 2016 without committing to purchasing a license.

On the other hand, the Developer Edition is a fully functional version of SQL Server 2016 that is available for free to developers who have signed up at the Visual Studio My Benefits portal. This edition has all the same features as the Enterprise Edition and does not have a time limit for usage. It's ideal for developing and testing applications using SQL Server 2016.

Download SQL Server 2016 Evaluation Edition

To download the Evaluation Edition of SQL Server 2016, visit the Microsoft TechNet Evaluation Center website. Here, you can select the version of SQL Server that you want to evaluate and follow the download instructions.

Download SQL Server 2016 Developer Edition

To download the Developer Edition of SQL Server 2016, sign up at the Visual Studio My Benefits portal as a developer. Once you have signed up, you will be able to download the Developer Edition for free and use it for non-production purposes.

Operating System Requirements

Before downloading and installing SQL Server 2016, make sure that your computer meets the operating system requirements. These requirements are listed at the end of this page.

Installation Guide

After downloading the SQL Server setup binaries, you can follow the step-by-step installation guide to install SQL Server 2016 on your computer.

In conclusion, Microsoft has made it easy for developers to download SQL Server 2016 for free. Whether you choose the Evaluation Edition or the Developer Edition, both options provide a great way to evaluate and test the new features of SQL Server 2016 without committing to purchasing a license. By following these steps, you can get started with SQL Server 2016 today and start building your next big application.

Microsoft sql server 2016 download free