SQL Server 2016 reaching end of support in July 2026 is an important milestone, there are licensing & cost changes and a holistic approach to consider. It’s not just about support ending—it’s really about helping customers move to a more secure, more modern data platform. Microsoft provides options ranging from extended security updates for short-term needs, to full modernization paths into Azure or newer SQL Server versions. The goal is to meet customers where they are and help them transition at their own pace, and Microsoft has a white glove offering through our Cloud Accelerate Factory at ZERO Cost to Customers!

✅ Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
3:22 Options
7:30 Getting started

✅ Resources:
Jumpstart Azure projects with zero-cost deployment assistance: https://aka.ms/Cloud-Accelerate-Factory
Microsoft Services: Pricing Consistency Update: https://aka.ms/ESUPricingBlog

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SQL Server 2016 reaches end of support on July 15, 2026, after which Microsoft will charge for extended security updates. Microsoft is offering a free white-glove migration service called the Cloud Accelerate Factory to help customers migrate to Azure SQL Database, Azure SQL Managed Instance, or even a newer on-premises SQL Server version. The service covers not just database migrations but also application migrations, analytics workloads, SSRS to Fabric/Power BI moves, and more. Customers with Unified Support can engage through their account team, while those without can be nominated by a Microsoft partner. The goal is to eliminate technical debt and avoid ongoing end-of-support payments.

SQL End of Life migration factory offer | Data Exposed