SQL Server 2008 SP1 is a roll-up of previous cumulative updates, quick fix engineering updates, and mino fixes made in response to requests reported through the SQL Server community.

There are no new features in this service pack, but customers running SQL Server 2008 should download and install it to take advantage of the fixes which increase supportability and stability of SQL Server 2008.

Microsoft has made investments to ease deployment and to make management of service packs more efficient. Key improvements include:

• Slipstream - Slipstream allows administrators to install SQL Server 2008 and the service pack in a single instance. This decreases the total time for an installation, including a fewer number of reboots, thereby increasing productivity and deployment availability.
• Service Pack Uninstall - Service Pack Uninstall allows administrators to uninstall the service pack separately from the database release. This feature also improves database administration productivity, reduces the cost of deployment, and improves overall supportability.
• Report Builder 2.0 Click Once deployment - Report Builder 2.0 Click Once improves the existing SQL Server 2008 end-user report authoring application by easing deployment to business users.

SQL Server 2008 Standard Edition for Small Business is the only version of the product made available in the System Builder Channel.

The following OPK downloads contain preinstallation documentation and SP1 software for Microsoft SQL Server 2008 SP1.

OEM Preinstallation Kits are available for many Microsoft technologies, including:

• Operating systems
• Servers
• Windows Services
• Other Microsoft products

For additional information, see Microsoft OEM Preinstallation Kits.