Question 1

What is the EOL Risk Score for Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 'Hydra' SP5a?

Accepted Answer

Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 'Hydra' SP5a has an EOL Risk Score™ of 70 out of 100, placing it in the High risk band. The score is calculated from four factors: EOL Recency (40/40), Attack Surface (10/30), CISA KEV Exposure (20/20), and Extended Support Availability (0/10).

Question 2

Is Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 'Hydra' SP5a still supported?

Accepted Answer

Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 'Hydra' SP5a is no longer supported — it has passed its end of life date (January 1, 2002). No further security patches will be issued. Upgrade to a supported version or obtain extended lifecycle support.

Question 3

When does Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 'Hydra' SP5a reach end of life?

Accepted Answer

Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 'Hydra' SP5a reached (or will reach) end of life on January 1, 2002. After this date, no security patches or bug fixes are issued by the vendor.

Question 4

What are the security risks of running Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 'Hydra' SP5a after end of life?

Accepted Answer

After end of life, Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 'Hydra' SP5a no longer receives security patches. Any newly discovered CVEs remain unpatched indefinitely. Organizations running EOL software also face compliance violations under SOC 2, PCI DSS, HIPAA, and ISO 27001, which require use of supported software versions.