This tutorial explains how to perform a (free) upgrade to SQL Server Express to a paid edition of Standard or Enterprise , even though Express only limits you to 32.767 simultaneous connections on the database server. Of course, you need a proper license and, if possible, an ISO file for installation. It also works with MSDN and MSDNAA downloads to upgrade a free version of SQL Express or Developer Test to a production server.
This upgrade guide covers SQL Server software at the same version, for example, upgrading from SQL Server 2016 Express to SQL Server 2016 Standard or Enterprise. Converting from free SQL Server to a licensed version is possible in just a few minutes; you only need the installation package (ISO or DVD) and the serial number for the version you purchased.
Useful for taking advantage of the Maintenance Plan (backup), setting up a cluster, or importing databases larger than 10GB (SQLEXPRESS limit). This will also be an opportunity to check for the latest updates for the DBMS; the list of available service packs for SQL Server can be found here.
In the case of an upgrade, for example from SQL Express 2014 to SQL 2016 Standard, a full installation of the new version will be required, with or without keeping the old version on the workstation.
Upgrading a SQL Express Server to Standard or Enterprise Edition
1. On the computer where SQL Server RDBMS is installed, insert the installation DVD or mount the ISO file (for example, MSDN source fr_sql_server_2016_standard_with_service_pack_1_x64_dvd_9540765.iso) to run or run setup.exe.
2. Go to menu Maintenance .
3. Click on» Upgrade editing » to start the installation wizard.
4. Fill in the product key to select the edition you purchased.
5. Check the information for preserving SQL instances. These instances will not be renamed (so SQLEXPRESS will remain SQLEXPRESS even in SQL Server Standard), and the databases will continue to be built and active after upgrading the DB server.
6. Check the summary of the operations to be performed, here the action is an "Upgrade Edition" to the "Standard" edition with the list of features and the name of the saved instance.
7. After a few moments, a screen summarizes the migration steps with their status (success or failure).
8. The SQL Server is now licensed, Standard or Enterprise, and full functionality is unlocked, for example, to use the SQL Maintenance Plan to schedule backups.
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