How To Download Install And Activate Microsoft SQL Server 2016

If you’re planning to set up Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Standard Edition (64-bit, 24-Core, with 10 User CALs), you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through how to download, install, and activate your copy quickly and correctly.

Whether you’re a system administrator, developer, or IT manager, getting your SQL Server up and running is the first step to unlocking robust data management, reporting, and business intelligence capabilities.

Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Download the Official Installation File

To get started, download the SQL Server 2016 Standard Edition installation package from the secure link provided below. This is a 64-bit version that supports up to 24 cores and includes 10 Client Access Licenses (CALs).

🔗 Download Link:
Download Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Standard (64-bit, 24-Core, 10 CAL) From link provided in email

⚠️ Important: This link provides a retail version of the software. Ensure you are downloading it to the correct server environment to avoid activation issues.

Step 2: Prepare for Installation

Before running the setup file, make sure the following prerequisites are met:

You’re using a 64-bit Windows operating system.
The system supports 24-core performance or higher.
You have administrator privileges on the server.
Any conflicting or older versions of SQL Server are uninstalled (or managed with side-by-side setup if needed).

💡 Pro Tip: It’s best to disable any antivirus or firewall temporarily during installation, as they might block critical setup processes.

Step 3: Install Microsoft SQL Server 2016

Once you’ve downloaded the installation package:

Run the setup.exe file from the extracted folder.
Choose “New SQL Server stand-alone installation”.
Follow the on-screen prompts to configure:
- Instance name (Default or Named)
- Feature selection (Database Engine Services, Reporting Services, etc.)
- Authentication mode (Windows or Mixed)
When prompted, enter your product activation key. (Check the license details shared with your purchase.)

Step 4: Activate with Your Product Key

Your SQL Server 2016 Standard Edition includes a unique product activation key. This key is valid for one server activation only. Be sure to keep a secure backup of your key. If you’re installing on a new or replacement server in the future, a new license may be required.

Final Thoughts

Installing and activating SQL Server 2016 Standard doesn’t have to be complicated. With the proper files, product key, and installation steps outlined above, you’ll be up and running in no time.

Whether you’re building a business intelligence solution, hosting a large-scale application, or just upgrading your environment, this version offers powerful performance with enterprise-grade reliability.

Indigo Software is a great place to go for software at a reasonable price. Their customer service is top notch and I highly recommend them to anyone.

Dave Kester

15:56 05 Sep 24

Great company for purchasing software at a very reasonable price. They provided me with excellent support getting the apps I purchased from them transferred to my new computer.

Betty Allman

20:29 03 Sep 24

I always go to Indigo SoftwRe for my Microsoft Office purchases, I haven't found a better price anywhere. What I didn't know is that they have awesome customer service. I had an issue with my computer and needed to... reinstall my software. I wasn't sure how to do that so I reached out to Indigo. They quickly responded with a video which provided a simple solution. I was back to work in minutes. Thank you Indigo for simplifying my life!read more

deb

00:01 24 Aug 24

I needed the Microsoft Office program on my Mac. When I purchased Indigo's product, I had several issues downloading and installing the program. However, when I reached out to the good people at Indigo, they went... above and beyond in helping me through all the steps needed in order to get the program up and running. I am beyond pleased with their expertise, knowledge, and the constant reaching out to me during the process! I've not seen a company care so much about their customers. Refreshing to see such professionalism! I would definitely recommend them for their products and services! Five stars to Indigo!read more

Melanie Koehler

21:33 16 Aug 24

Indigo is incredible!!! They have genuine Microsoft Suite products at a fraction of the price. In addition, the customer service is top notch!! Highly recommend!!!

Jack Berk

20:25 20 Jun 24

Indigio Software company is a company I continuously return to. Customer Service is great and the product pricing is awesome. This is a veteran owned/run company and I believe in supporting whenever possible those who... serve and have served to give us the Freedoms we love and hold dear. Thank you Indigo Software company. I refer anyone who wants a company that truley cares about their customers and want to support veterans!read more

Suzanne Ellis

18:54 18 Jun 24

I’m thankful I found Indigo Software. Over the last few years, I’ve purchased their Microsoft Office Professional software suite for three different home computers. I don't understand why everyone does not purchase... their Microsoft Office programs thru Indigo Software. They are economical and provide great, responsive Customer Service!read more

Russ Pilcher

13:59 07 May 24

I purchased a couple of licenses for Windows 10 over the years and 1 license for Office Pro 2019. I dumped one of my older laptops where Office Pro 2019 was installed and purchased a new laptop. Unfortunately, I... could not activate the Office Pro 2019 on my new laptop. I reached out to Indigo and they provided me a new legitimate activation code which I successfully registered in my Microsoft online account. I was then able to re-install on my new laptop without issue and fully activated and recognized as legitimate MS software.read more

John Benson

02:55 25 Apr 24

They have amazing customer service. I accidentally ordered the wrong item and then email them about my mistake. They were very quick to cancel my original order and refund the cost so I could easily order what I... actually wanted. The refund credited quickly to my credit card so there was no financial impact or delay.They have an excellent video to a company the order which made it very simple and easy to download and install.I am so happy to see that there are companies out there that still know what true customer service is.read more

elika

17:14 31 Jan 24

I purchased Office from Indigo some time ago, but in the aftermath of upgrading my PC's CPU and upgrading to Windows 11, the license was lost/deleted/corrupted/removed and my Office was deemed an unlicensed copy (with... the corresponding warnings from Microsoft.) The Team Indigo Helpdesk was (unlike some other "helpdesks") very helpful, resolving my issues promptly, even on a weekend. One may purchase productivity software from many sources, but they stand behind their service. Thank you Indigo. I feel comfortable in recommending your service to anyone at any time.read more

Sid Wood

18:01 28 Jan 24

I've dealt with several software vendors in the past, but I can truly say that Indigo has exceeded my expectations. Not only are the prices fantastic (for LEGITIMATE Sftwr and Keys), but the response, and follow-up are... amazing. I purchased software on behalf of a non-profit, and they handled the tax-exempt status without any issue. Then when I bought Software for myself, somehow my email was 'linked' to that non-profit entity. Indigo responded incredibly fast and cleared it up. All this, while providing valid keys which activated without issue.I'm very happy with Indigo Software and will continue to use them as a valuable Software resource!read more

Tbne3618

14:14 28 Jan 24

I am a Veteran disabled from a stroke , and built a New pc as therapy for my hand from components given to me as a gift, however I was having issues with my fresh new windows 10 Pro. Install and activation, 2 days... working on the issue ,and After hours on the phone with Microsoft support ,even they could not Resolve the Issue. I came upon the Indigo software website by accident. And thought I would send an email with my dilemma. It was late here on the east coast. I was very surprised in less than 1 hour I had received an email. With some instructions as to what I should look for. Emailed back a few screenshots of the errors. And 2 emails later. Within 1 hour . I was fully up and running. Issue was resolved. Not sure if I should mention a name, but I want to thank Michael of the Team Indigo Software Helpdesk ,,and company for resolving the issue. I highly recommend Indigo software for your Microsoft software needs. And their support is beyond fantastic. Please. Support this company. You cannot go wrong.Veteran owned business.Semper FiNeal Newmanread more

Neal Newman

18:09 23 Jan 24

We've been purchasing software for several years now and really appreciate the great service and quality of Indigo Software Company. Their prices are very affordable and we've never had an issue with any software we've... purchased. Look forward to another great year as our software needs arise!read more

Eagle Medical Inc

17:36 22 Jan 24

I could have bought Office 2021 from another company cheaper but didn't so glad I paid more had issues with download and the support from Joe and Jenna was awesome. You get what u pay for so spend the extra money and go... with Indigo. I've used multiple times and they have never let me down.read more

Herbert Cumbaa

15:55 26 Jul 22

Outstanding! Fair Price for Product! (Office Professional Plus 2016) Received Install Codes Immediately after Purchase! Processed Perfectly with Microsoft! Wanted Legit Software for Our Church! Will Use Again!... A+A+A+A+A+A+A+A+A+A+A+read more

Allan Drake

20:51 16 Jul 22

Asked for two activations for office 2019 professional I bought two times. Microsoft says since I updated to win 11 the code provided is not a good code on either computer. Indigo sent me both replacement codes. I... also sent in a form on your website with my phone number.read more

Bob S

14:13 20 Jun 22

I purchased MS Office 2019 for my new computer in 2021. The Install went well and all was good. A little over a year later Outlook stopped being able to sign into the Comcast email. Talking to Comcast tech after several... different trials we found by deleting the Comcast account and reinstalling it fixed the problem. About a month later the problem happen again. The delete and recreate the account trick did not work. Comcast indicated it was a MS Outlook problem since my iPhone that uses the same interface and the webmail portal all worked with the account. I then contacted Indigo about the issue. I got an email the next day asking for the order #. A few days later a email with YouTube video links on how to setup the Office software. I replied with a second more in depth description of what had been tried to resolve the issue. I have not heard from them in a week now. I can't imagine someone dealing with this lack of responce if their business depended upon it. Fortunetly for me, it is just for home use. The problem may not be MS Outlook, but you have to be able to get the support / knowledgebase to work thru to the solution.Edit: As soon as I checked my email, Indego had responded with a proceedure to reinstall Office and make sure no other office products were installed. It worked and Office is resyncing with the email account now.read more

Sidney Ruetz

21:03 19 May 22

Best software purchasing experience bar none. Excellent prices and installation was painless and flawless. I needed both Windows 10 and Microsoft office. I saved a lot of money. You can't go wrong here!!!

Dito Dalawa

15:15 24 Dec 21

Download Install And Activate Microsoft SQL Server 2016

Step 1: Download the Official Installation File

Step 2: Prepare for Installation

Step 3: Install Microsoft SQL Server 2016

Step 4: Activate with Your Product Key

Final Thoughts

Customer Reviews