Install SQL Server 2012 servicing updates
This topic provides information about installing updates for SQL Server 2012. This section provides information about the following:
Installing updates for SQL Server 2012 during a new installation
Installing updates for SQL Server 2012 after it has already been installed.
We recommend that customers evaluate and install latest SQL Server updates in a timely manner to make sure that systems are up-to-date with the most recent security updates.
Installing Updates for SQL Server 2012 during a new installation
Starting with SQL Server 2012, SQL Server setup integrates the latest product updates with the main product installation so that the main product and its applicable updates are installed at the same time. Product Update can search for the applicable updates from:
Microsoft Update
Windows Server Update Services (WSUS)
A local folder
A network share
After Setup finds the latest versions of the applicable updates, it downloads and integrates them with the current SQL Server setup process. Product Update can pull in a cumulative update, service pack, or service pack plus cumulative update. Product Update functionality is an extension of the Slipstream Functionality (https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=219945) that was available in SQL Server 2008 PCU1.
For more information on Product Updates, see Product Updates in SQL Server 2012 Installation.
Installing Updates for SQL Server 2012 after it has already been installed
On an installed instance of SQL Server 2012, we recommend that you apply the latest security updates and critical updates including General Distribution Releases (GDRs), and Service Packs (SPs). Individual Cumulative updates and security updates should be adopted on a case-by-case, "as-needed" basis. Evaluate the update, if it's needed, then apply it. If not, assess the risk of applying or not. For more information, see Best Practices for Applying Service Packs, Hotfixes and Security Patches (https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=228567).
The SQL Server updates are available through Microsoft Update (MU), Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) and the Microsoft Download Center (https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkID=221787). Security and Critical updates for SQL Server are available through Microsoft Update, and to be able to see these updates you need to opt-into MU through the Windows Update applet in Control panel.
When you receive an update through MU, it will update all SQL Server features to the latest version in an unattended mode. If you need more flexibility or don’t have internet or WSUS access you will need to obtain the updates from the Microsoft Download Center.
See Also
Tasks
Install SQL Server 2012 from the Installation Wizard (Setup)
Repair a Failed SQL Server 2012 Installation