Slipstream in SQL Server
What is the slipstream how to use slipstream to install SQL server?
Slipstream is a technique used by System Admins to easily update the setup packages of SQL Server Instance and its Service Pack/Cumulative Updates packaged together. This is a new feature introduced in SQL Server 2008 and has been enhanced further in next versions (like SQL Server 2012-2022).
Slipstreaming is the process of integrating a service pack or updates into the installation process, so that with every new installation the operating system is installed with updates at the same time. Slipstreaming is usually done on network shares on corporate systems.
Advantages of Slipstream:
- We can save total time for installing SQL Server (but merging RTM, SP’s and CU’s)
- Reduce the number of restarts required and hence forth reducing downtime.
- Keep SQL Server updated with latest service pack/cumulative update with minimal effort.
- Unattended installation can be done easier for Service packs.
SQL Server 2012/2014 Slipstream Installation:
SQL Server 2012 slipstream has been enhanced with new set of parameters compared to previous versions.
UpdateEnabled: This parameter specifies whether SQL Server Setup should search for and include product updates. Valid values are TRUE and FALSE or 1 and 0.
UpdateSource: This parameter specifies the location where SQL Server Setup searches for product updates.
Valid values are: “MU” (or) Valid folder path or UNC path.
“MU” is the default value and specifies to search for the Windows Update service updates.
Slipstream Steps:
1) Create a folder with a proper naming convention
C:\Media\Installation media\SQL_2019
2) Copy the entire RTM media to this location
3) Go to x64 folder and open Defaultsetup.ini file and add updatesource= patch file location.
4) Run below commands in CMD to start installation.
setup.exe /ACTION=INSTALL /UPDATESOURCE=”MU”
setup.exe /ACTION=INSTALL /UPDATESOURCE=”E:\SQL2012SPCU”
Else we can start installation as usual right click on setup file and run as administrator.
It will install SQL server with updated patch file.
