Modern Servicing Model (Service Pack and Cumulative Updates) for SQL Server 2017 and onwards

With SQL Server 2017 GA announcement for October-2 2017, Microsoft is introducing changes to the servicing model through GDRs, CUs and SPs.

 

Excerpt from article published:

 

—————————————–

 

The Modern Servicing Model

 

Starting with SQL Server 2017, we are adopting a simplified, predictable mainstream servicing lifecycle:

• SPs will no longer be made available. Only CUs, and GDRs when needed.
  
• CUs will now accommodate localized content, allowing new feature completeness and supportability enhancements to be delivered faster.
  
• CUs will be delivered more often at first and then less frequently. Every month for the first 12 months, and every quarter for the remainder 4 years of the full 5-year mainstream lifecycle.
  
• CUs are delivered on the same week of the month: week of 3rd Tuesday.
  

Note: the Modern Servicing Model (MSM) only applies to SQL Server 2017 and future versions.

 

Servicing lifecycle

 

The servicing lifecycle is unchanged for SQL Server 2016:

• Years 0-5 (Mainstream Support): Security and Functional issue resolution though CUs. Security issues through GDRs.
  
• Years 6-10 (Extended Support): Security or critical functional issues.
  
• Years 11-16 (Premium Assurance): Optional paid extension to Extended Support (no scope change).
  

 

—————————————–

 

You can read all about these changes in our blog post here, which includes an extensive FAQ section.