Is it time to upgrade your SQL Server?

This article explains why it's important to keep your SQL Server up to date to ensure your Sage software continues to function correctly.

NOTE: When working with SQL, we strongly encourage you to consult your local IT support for assistance and guidance. We recommend upgrading where possible as part of a server move if it's appropriate to update your server at the same time.

What is SQL Server?

SQL (Structured Query Language) Server is a software product which stores and retrieves data on your server as requested by other software, including Sage software. As your Sage software is developed it's important to make sure that you update your SQL software so that both products are compliant.

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Which version of SQL server should I be using?

You should consider upgrading SQL if you are using v2012 or below. We currently recommend v2017.

NOTE: SQL 2017 does not support 32 bit operating systems.

If you're using a more recent operating system, for example Windows Server 2019, 2022 or Windows 11, you may want to consider installing the latest version (SQL 2019) which is appropraite for the lifetime of your operating system.

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How do I upgrade my SQL?

We cannot provide extensive support for upgrading SQL but these are the basic steps we recommend with regard to your Sage software.

1. Check your current SQL version.
2. Where possible, make a note of the versions of the following SQL dependent products if you use them:
   • Sage Corporation Tax - Click Help, then click About Sage Corporation Tax and scroll down to System info.
   • Sage Taxation - Click Help, then click About then click System information.
   • Sage Practice Solution
3. For each affected product, create a full backup, further information about hw to do this is available as follows:
   • Sage Corporation Tax >
   • Sage Taxation >
   • Sage Practice Solution >
4. Install your new version of SQL.
5. Uninstall the SQL dependent software, in the following order for the products you use: Sage Taxation > Sage Corporation Tax > Sage Practice Solution.
   
     NOTE: the databases for Personal tax will need to be dropped along with uninstalling, 
6. Disable or remove your old SQL service.
7. Reinstall same software versions as noted in step 2, during the installation, when prompted, assign them to the new SQL database.
8. Restore the backups taken in step 3  into the newly installed software.

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Will Sage support me in upgrading SQL?

Unfortunately because SQL is third party software we can't support you directly with any upgrade beyond the outline steps above, you can read more about our policy with third party software here >

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