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Where Can I Get A Copy Of SQL Server Developer R2 Edition ?
I was given a copy of the SQL Server 2008 Developer Edition b y a friend who no longer needs it . I have not installed it as yet by the way , so I am assuming that the product key is pre-installed . The online video training I have access to is for the R2 Version, so my question are : 1) How can I get a copy of the R2 Version ? 2)Additionally is there a way to upgrade to the R2 Version in the Developer Edition? I have seen some blogs with info on upgrading but they are usually the Standard or Enterprise versions. 3)As I am a Newbie, obviously, can I just go ahead and begin the training using the version I have now after I have installed it or will there be some deficiencies in my learning from the very beginning , which by the way does also include how to do an install ?
In terms of your training (and you said you are a Newbie, so I'm guessing it is basic TSQL and general database design), you'll probably find that most of what is covered in the training material is relevant to both 2008 and 2008R2. In the 'official' world of Microsoft learning, there's no distinction between the two, and the only certification you could get prior to the SQL2012 ones where SQL2008, not R2. The majority of changes from 2008 to 2008R2 came in the BI side of the product, plus a few features moved down from Enterprise to Standard - but with Developer Edition you get the full Enterprise-level feature set anyway. Keep looking out for a Dev edition of R2 - eBay, Amazon and others allow sellers to sell their old items. So I say, start the training, don't worry about it, but keep your eye open for a cheap (less than $40) copy of R2 Dev.
I don't think you can buy an upgrade but you can buy the 2008R2 Developer Edition for around £40 from software resellers. (Strangely not from the Microsoft online store.) Whether you need the R2 upgrade depends on what material your training course covers.
As David mentioned there are sites still selling. You may want to search the internet for SQL server 2008 R2 Developer edition. I did a quick search and found several sites still offering and at very reasonable price. If you training calls for SQL Server 08 R2 that is what you should use. 2008 and 2008 R2 are completely different versions.
Thanks for all the responses . They were helpful . In response to the first two replies , I did look into purchasing the Developer edition , but unfortunately most resellers , here in the US anyway David ;-) , seem to have only the 2012 edition (Those seem to be in limited supply as well for any interested parties out there ). I have come across some resellers who have what is called an Open Business License for the 2008 R2 Developer . The catch , as always , is that though the individual price is reasonable , approximately $35 , you need to purchase in the least extreme example a minimum of 5 License . I of course will not say the names of the resellers . I have submitted an email to one and hope the response will give me some exception as I wont need 4 extra Licenses . In fact if this is the only option available to me then the only up shot is that I can get access to newer editions as they come out in the future for no extra cost as was explained to me . Any further information will be appreciated though .... PS what's this about a MS SQL Server 2014 Edition coming out !!! I am only now learning 2008 :-)
Number 3: Go ahead and begin using the training. 2008 and R2 are highly similar so you are unlikely to have any deficiency in your learning.
For training purposes you will find very little difference in 2008 and 2008R2. there are some new DMVs, functions, etc in R2 but as a newbie, the basics you will be learning probably won't cross over into any new R2 features. Depending on the level of the training you could very well get away with 2008R2 Express Edition as well. However to get 2008R2, Amazon, CDW, Newegg, etc all have them available for under $50 or so. Best of luck and welcome to the world of Microsoft SQL Server. Might I also suggest you take a look at [SQL PASS](
http://www.sqlpass.org)
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