[dba-SQLServer] sql2005 express to standard

Hi all,

we have an sql express database that has been running  for many many many years, we are getting a new timtrack software that they recommend to run on sql standard, a few vendors still have sql 2005std on hand for a really good price (we need the cpu license) , so the question i have is two-fold;

a) is the best way to upgrade the current db to standard via back up /restore?
  
b) is it foolish to purchase sql 2005 given that we are in 2014?

Any thoughts/feedback. opinions would be greatly appreciated.

TIA