How to fix Error 10762 on Windows Server 2025 / Windows 11

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Troubleshooting Guide: Error 10762 in SQL Server 2025

Why This Error Happens

This error occurs when a T-SQL query uses a function or syntax feature (such as certain sqrt, sequence-related calls, or other functions introduced in SQL Server 2012) that requires a database compatibility level of 110 or higher. The database in question is likely still running under an older compatibility level (100 or below) because it was migrated or restored from a legacy instance without updating this setting. SQL Server enforces these compatibility gates to prevent breaking changes when databases are upgraded from older versions.

Step-by-Step Resolution Guide

Step 1: Identify the Current Compatibility Level

  • Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and connect to your Windows Server 2025 / Windows 11 instance.
  • Run the following query to check the current setting:
  SELECT name, compatibility_level 
  FROM sys.databases 
  WHERE name = 'YourDatabaseName';
  • Confirm whether the value returned is below 110 (e.g., 80, 90, or 100).

Step 2: Alter the Database Compatibility Level

  • Execute the following command to raise the compatibility level to at least 110 (or higher, matching SQL Server 2025 standards, typically 160):
  ALTER DATABASE YourDatabaseName 
  SET COMPATIBILITY_LEVEL = 160;
  • Ensure you run this command in the context of the master database or with USE master; executed first.

Step 3: Clear the Procedure Cache

  • Since changing compatibility levels can leave old execution plans cached, flush the cache to prevent stale plan errors.
  • Run the following command to force SQL Server to recompile queries using the new mode:
  DBCC FREEPROCCACHE;

Step 4: Restart the SQL Server Service (If Necessary)

  • Navigate to the Services console on Windows Server 2025 by typing services.msc in the Run dialog.
  • Locate SQL Server (MSSQLSERVER) or your named instance, right-click, and select Restart to ensure all session states reset the error.

Alternative or Verification Steps

  • Verification: Re-run the original query or stored procedure that triggered Error 10762. If the compatibility level update was successful, the function should execute without the “not allowed in the current compatibility mode” error.
  • Alternative: If you cannot upgrade the compatibility level due to legacy application dependencies, rewrite the query to avoid the specific function flagged in the error message, substituting it with a syntax compatible with the lower compatibility level.