SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update: What Dev Needs to Know

Greetings, Dev! In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update. As a developer, you know how important it is to stay up-to-date with the latest updates and features. In this article, we’ll explore what’s new in the SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update and how it can benefit your development projects.

What is a Cumulative Update?

A cumulative update (CU) is a collection of hotfixes, enhancements, and bug fixes that have been delivered since the last service pack or cumulative update. CUs are released on a regular basis to address reported issues and to enhance the stability and performance of the software.

The SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update is the latest set of fixes for SQL Server 2017. It includes all prior updates and fixes, as well as new features and enhancements.

New Features and Enhancements

1. Improved Security

The SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update includes several enhancements to improve the security of your database. These enhancements include:

Feature
Description
Always Encrypted with secure enclaves
This feature allows you to protect sensitive data by encrypting it and keeping the decryption key on a separate machine.
Automatic detection and remediation of memory corruption vulnerabilities
SQL Server 2017 now has improved detection and remediation of memory corruption vulnerabilities.
Dynamic data masking
This feature allows you to mask sensitive data in real-time to prevent unauthorized access.

These security enhancements provide added protection for your data and help ensure that your database remains secure and compliant with industry standards.

2. Performance Enhancements

The SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update also includes several performance enhancements to improve the speed and efficiency of your database. These enhancements include:

Feature
Description
Graph processing
You can now use graph algorithms to traverse and analyze relationships between data points.
Adaptive query processing
This feature allows SQL Server to automatically adjust its query processing based on changing conditions.
Automatic tuning
SQL Server can now automatically tune database performance by identifying and fixing performance issues.

These performance enhancements can significantly improve the speed and efficiency of your SQL Server database, resulting in faster response times and improved overall performance.

3. Improved Support for Linux

The SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update includes several enhancements to improve support for Linux-based systems. These enhancements include:

Feature
Description
SQL Server Agent
You can now use SQL Server Agent to schedule jobs on Linux-based systems.
Backup and restore
SQL Server now provides improved backup and restore capabilities on Linux-based systems.
SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS)
You can now run SSIS packages on Linux-based systems.

These enhancements make it easier to manage and maintain your SQL Server databases on Linux-based systems, providing increased flexibility and compatibility.

FAQ

1. How often are Cumulative Updates released?

Cumulative Updates are released on a monthly basis, typically on the second Tuesday of each month. However, Microsoft may release Cumulative Updates at other times as needed to address critical issues.

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2. Do I need to install all prior Cumulative Updates before installing the latest one?

No. The latest Cumulative Update includes all prior updates and fixes, so you only need to install the latest one.

3. Is it recommended to install the latest Cumulative Update?

Yes. Installing the latest Cumulative Update ensures that your SQL Server 2017 instance is up-to-date with the latest features and bug fixes. It can also improve the stability and performance of your database.

4. Will the SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update affect my existing databases?

Possibly. Cumulative Updates include bug fixes and performance improvements, which may affect the behavior of your existing databases. It’s important to test the update on a non-production environment before installing it on a production environment.

5. Is the SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update compatible with previous versions of SQL Server?

No. The SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update is only compatible with SQL Server 2017. If you’re using an earlier version of SQL Server, you’ll need to install the appropriate Cumulative Update for that version.

Conclusion

The SQL Server 2017 Cumulative Update includes a wide range of new features and enhancements that can benefit your development projects. From improved security and performance to better support for Linux-based systems, the update provides increased flexibility and compatibility.

If you’re using SQL Server 2017, it’s highly recommended that you install the latest Cumulative Update to take advantage of these new features and enhancements. Just be sure to test the update on a non-production environment before installing it on a production environment.