SQL Server 2016 reached the end of extended support on 14 July 2026. Microsoft now offers paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) for up to three years, to 17 July 2029. Unlike earlier versions, SQL Server 2016 does not get ESU free just by running in Azure.
SQL Server 2016 end-of-life dates at a glance
| What | Date |
|---|---|
| End of mainstream support | 13 July 2021 |
| End of extended support | 14 July 2026 |
| ESU year 1 | 15 July 2026 to 13 July 2027 |
| ESU year 2 | 14 July 2027 to 18 July 2028 |
| ESU year 3 (final) | 19 July 2028 to 17 July 2029 |
ESU is available pay-as-you-go through SQL Server enabled by Azure Arc, or as an annual purchase for licences with active Software Assurance. How a server is registered depends on where it runs: SQL Server on Azure virtual machines through the SQL IaaS Agent extension, Arc-connected servers through Azure Arc, and disconnected servers manually in the Azure portal. ESU provides critical security fixes only.
What end of support means for your databases
Without ESU, new vulnerabilities in SQL Server 2016 stay unpatched. Databases often hold the most sensitive data in the estate, so an unsupported instance is a common audit finding even when the server underneath is fully patched.
What to do now
- Find every SQL Server 2016 instance, including ones installed with line-of-business applications.
- Check each application vendor’s supported SQL Server versions before you plan the move.
- Upgrade or migrate to SQL Server 2025, SQL Server 2022 or Azure SQL, testing a restored copy of each database first.
- Use ESU only for instances you cannot move in time, and register each one in the way Microsoft requires for where it runs.
- Track every instance until it is upgraded or decommissioned.
Frequently asked questions
When did SQL Server 2016 reach end of life?
Extended support for SQL Server 2016 ended on 14 July 2026. Mainstream support ended on 13 July 2021.
Can I still get security updates for SQL Server 2016?
Yes, through paid Extended Security Updates for up to three years, until 17 July 2029. Each server must be registered with Microsoft to receive them: through Azure Arc, the SQL IaaS Agent extension on Azure virtual machines, or manually in the Azure portal.
What should I upgrade SQL Server 2016 to?
SQL Server 2025, SQL Server 2022 or Azure SQL, after confirming that each application’s vendor supports the version you choose.
Sources
Dates from Microsoft: SQL Server 2016 lifecycle; ESU terms from Microsoft: Extended Security Updates for SQL Server. Always confirm dates with the vendor before making decisions.