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How often to update SQL Server?
Question
I am a new DBA at a company that has never had a DBA before me. SQL Servers are never upgraded unless it is part of a Windows Update on the server. Service Packs (or CUs) are never installed. We have a mix of versions from 2000 to 2014.
I’m trying to develop a policy for maintaining and upgrading the SQL Servers. How often do you upgrade your SQL Servers? Or more specifically, how up-to-date do you keep your SQL Servers and why?
For example:
- SQL Servers will be upgraded when the version is not within Microsoft’s Mainstream support.
- SQL Servers will stay within 2 (two) versions of the most recent version released from Microsoft.
What about SPs and CUs?
asked 2017-01-02 by S. Lloyd
Answer
How frequently you install Service Packs and/or Cumulative Updates will vary wildly based on your individual scenario. There is no objective one-size-fits-all answer.
The best general advice I could offer would be to follow Microsoft’s advice. As of January 2016, Microsoft’s advice is:
we now recommend ongoing, proactive installation of CU’s as they become available.
answered 2017-01-02 by Andy Mallon