Ensure Latest SQL Server Cumulative and Security Updates are Installed

HighLevel 1Manual reviewmssql

Description

SQL Server patches contain program updates that fix security and product functionality issues found in the software. These patches can be installed with a security update, which is a single patch, or a cumulative update which is a group of patches. The SQL Server version and patch levels should be the most recent compatible with the organizations' operational needs. Default: Cumulative and security updates are not installed by default.

How it is checked

Audit method: Manual review

This recommendation cannot be checked automatically. A scan lists it with these instructions when you pass --include-manual.

To determine your SQL Server patch level, run the following code snippet. SELECT SERVERPROPERTY('ProductLevel') as SP_installed, SERVERPROPERTY('ProductVersion') as Version, SERVERPROPERTY('ProductUpdateLevel') as 'ProductUpdate_Level', SERVERPROPERTY('ProductUpdateReference') as 'KB_Number';

How it is fixed

Fix method: Guidance or infrastructure patch

Identify the current version and patch level of your SQL Server instances and ensure they contain the latest security fixes. Make sure to test these fixes in your test environments before updating production instances. The most recent SQL Server patches can be found here: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/sql/releases/download-and-install-latest- updates

Properties

Operating systems: Any
Tags: mssqldatabasemanual
Reference: CIS Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Benchmark v1.0.0 - 1.1 Ensure Latest SQL Server Cumulative and Security Updates are Installed