Support ended for SQL Server 2016. So did the Microsoft subsidy

As of July 15, 2026, extended security updates for SQL Server 2016 on Azure became paid — previously they were free. ESU costs about 75% of the license price per year, runs until July 17, 2029, and late enrollment is billed from day one.

• ESU for SQL Server 2016 costs ~75% of license price per year
• Coverage runs until July 17, 2029
• Late enrollment is billed from the first day of the term
• Windows Server 2016 loses support on January 12, 2027