[EOS/Discontinuation] ApsaraDB RDS for SQL Server will no longer support serverless instances
ApsaraDB RDS for SQL Server is retiring serverless instances to focus resources on more stable database solutions. The retirement follows a two-phase schedule: new purchases are discontinued starting November 3, 2025 (UTC+8), and technical support ends on June 1, 2026 (UTC+8). Convert your existing serverless instances to pay-as-you-go instances before June 1, 2026 to avoid service disruption.
Schedule
Starting November 3, 2025 (UTC+8): New purchases of RDS for SQL Server serverless instances are discontinued.
Starting June 1, 2026 (UTC+8): Technical support for RDS for SQL Server serverless instances is discontinued. Existing instances continue to run, but will no longer receive feature updates or bug fixes.
Impact and recommendations
| Instance | Impact | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| New instances | New purchases are discontinued from November 3, 2025 (UTC+8). | Create a subscription or pay-as-you-go instance instead. |
| Existing instances | After June 1, 2026 (UTC+8), instances continue to run but receive no technical support or updates. | Convert your serverless instances to pay-as-you-go as soon as possible. |
Disclaimer
After June 1, 2026 (UTC+8), RDS for SQL Server serverless instances will no longer receive technical support from Alibaba Cloud. Running production workloads on these instances exposes your applications and business to risks including security vulnerabilities, application incompatibility, compliance gaps, and operational instability. You are solely responsible for any issues, failures, and security risks arising from continued use beyond that date.