SQL server release types, hotfixes, service packs ... etc.

  • I've been getting to grips with the different types of release, ctp, rtm, sp ... etc. I think I have most of it down but I can't find the answers to a few outstanding questions. I would be grateful for your advice:

    Where do I look to keep up to date on new releases (as in new security updates, hotfixes etc. for my versions)?

    Hotfixes I understand should be applied if you are symptomatic, how about security updates? I guess since they indicate a potential security issue everybody should endeavour to apply all security updates?

    Does the version number change when a certain Security Update has been applied?

    Many thanks.

  • for point 1, take a look at the build list on msdn

    2008R2 build list is at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/981356, but a google search of SQL SERVER XXXX BUILD LIST will bring in the other pages.

    there are 3 types of updates, you have the hotfixes like you say should be installed when you have a specific problem, then there are the CU (cumulative updates) which is a package of fixes, then you have the SP (service pack) which are a combination of all CU's up to the point of release.

    i personally dont install CU's unless I have a specific issue which the CU fixes, I wait for the service pack then it goes through the usual dev/uat/training/systest environments for testing before releasing to production. so it is personal preference as to what you install and when.

    the build number does change with each HF/CU/SP you install, the build number can be found on the same build list page above.

  • Thanks, that's great info.

    Appreciate your time.

    🙂

  • Try this:

    http://sqlserverbuilds.blogspot.com/

  • Where do I look to keep up to date on new releases (as in new security updates, hotfixes etc. for my versions)?

    The release services blog is great for cumulative updates and service packs.

    http://blogs.msdn.com/b/sqlreleaseservices/[/url]

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