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Microsoft SQL Server has remained a well-kept industry secret, with its IoT version flying under the radar. Interestingly, many OEM customers need to know how to integrate it into their IoT solutions seamlessly.

Since its inception in 1989 with SQL Server 1.0, Microsoft has consistently released new iterations, culminating in the most advanced and feature-rich edition—SQL Server IoT 2022, launched in 2023.

What I find intriguing in my conversations with OEM customers is their lack of awareness regarding the OEM IoT channel’s access to the SQL product family. The IoT channel offers a dedicated version of SQL Server that mirrors the standard channel’s SQL Server products in every aspect, except for the licensing terms. These terms mandate installation on a purpose-specific appliance and the exclusive dedication of the database to the appliance’s specific application.

Further, when SQL Server IoT 2022 combines with Windows Server IoT 2022, you get a robust platform that enables your solution to be secure, fast, and reliable.

 

SQL Server IoT Use Cases in Edge Servers

A typical starting point for many OEMs is the free SQL Express database, yet they soon confront its limitations and constraints. The SQL Standard edition, typically available through the standard channel, frequently proves financially unfeasible for OEMs, leading them to wrestle with the limits of the Express edition. They may need to realize that the IoT channel’s version of the SQL database carries a substantially lower price tag.

With this more affordable pricing, coupled with the complete feature set of the Standard edition, OEMs can fortify their edge solutions without being concerned about any capacity limitations inherent in the Express edition.

SQL Server IoT 2022 comes in both Standard and Enterprise editions, offering flexibility with licensing models such as Server/CAL and Processor Core with unlimited user options. Licensing can range from straightforward to intricate, contingent on your specific configuration and solution requirements. At Arrow, our licensing experts are well-equipped to assist you with any inquiries regarding SQL licensing.

 

What Features does this new 2022 edition have over previous editions?

  • Data virtualization for any data lake
  • Object storage backup and restore
  • Azure Synapse Link
  • Buffer pool parallel scan
  • Query Store on by default with replica support
  • Query Store hints
  • Integrated acceleration & offloading
  • Hybrid buffer pool with direct write
  • Large memory and concurrency scalability
  • Multi-write replication
  • Link to Azure SQL Managed Instance – bidirectional
  • Contained availability group
  • Azure Active Directory authentication
  • Microsoft Purview Integration data owner policies
  • SQL Ledger
  • Support for PFX certificates and other cryptographic enhancements
  • MS-TDS 8.0 protocol and TLS 1.3
  • Link to Azure SQL Managed Instance – bidirectional
  • Azure Purview data owner policies
  • AAD Authentication
  • Azure Synapse Link for SQL
  • Bit manipulation functions
  • Time series support
  

 

Reach out to us here at Arrow if you would like more information on Microsoft SQL IoT 2022.

 

 

About the author

Ken Marlin

Supplier Manager

Based in Phoenix Arizona, Ken is a Microsoft Business Development Manager at Arrow Electronics. Ken is a 3-time Microsoft MVP on Windows IoT products and has over 35 years of experience in supporting all Microsoft products and channels. Known in the industry as the Windows Champ, Ken has a youtube channel that provides valuable information on getting started with Windows IoT products and “How To” informational videos. His specialty is helping customers with complex licensing on Windows Server, SQL Server and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise.