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Checking That a Patch Really Installed

May 18, 2015
Pinal Dave
SQL Tips and Tricks
Cumulative Update, DBA, SQL Patch, SQL Server, SQL Setup

Checking That a Patch Really Installed means comparing full versions, reading Setup summary logs, and confirming the startup error log.

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A temporary wooden footbridge crosses a river from an old cottage to a newly built house.

Extended Security Updates Explained

October 12, 2014
Pinal Dave
SQL Tips and Tricks
SQL Licensing, SQL Migration, SQL Patch, SQL Server, SQL Server Security

Extended Security Updates give eligible older SQL Server releases limited critical security coverage while you complete a migration.

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A walker seen from behind pauses where a woodland footpath splits into a narrow path and a wider one.

GDR or CU: Choosing Your Update Branch

June 14, 2014
Pinal Dave
SQL Tips and Tricks
Cumulative Update, DBA, SQL Patch, SQL Server, SQL Server Security

Choose GDR or CU for SQL Server by understanding security and cumulative branches, checking the exact build, and testing a branch change.

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A line of falling wooden dominoes on a floor, with one red domino turned sideways to stop the chain.

Automating SQL Server Patching With PowerShell

November 18, 2012
Pinal Dave
SQL Tips and Tricks
Cumulative Update, PowerShell, SQL Patch, SQL Server, SQL Setup

Automating SQL Server Patching with PowerShell means staging a verified package, running Setup quietly, checking logs, and stopping on failure.

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A model ship floats in a long indoor water tank as small waves roll toward it from the far end.

Keeping a Patch Test Environment Honest

September 23, 2012
Pinal Dave
SQL Tips and Tricks
SQL Backup and Restore, SQL Patch, SQL Server, SQL Server Configuration, Testing

A Patch Test Environment must match production data, settings, jobs, and versions closely enough to reveal real patch risks.

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A worker seen from behind lays tools beside a closed stretch of railway while a distant train waits at a signal.

Scheduling Patch Windows Without Surprises

October 15, 2011
Pinal Dave
SQL Tips and Tricks
AlwaysOn, DBA, SQL Patch, SQL Server, SQL Server Agent

Scheduling Patch Windows requires realistic restart time, failover steps, job coordination, backup checks, and clear stop rules.

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A passenger train waiting on the main line at dusk while a short fast train passes on a side track under a red signal lamp

Staying Current Without Chasing Every Update

January 15, 2010
Pinal Dave
SQL Tips and Tricks
Cumulative Update, DBA, SQL Patch, SQL Server, SQL Service Pack

Staying current on SQL Server takes a repeatable CU cadence, fast security response, and a patch policy your team can actually keep.

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