How often to update SQL Server? I am a new DBA at a company that has never had a DBA before me. SQL Servers are never upgraded unless it is part of a Windows Update on the server. Service Packs (or CUs) are never installed. We have a mix of versions from 2000 to 2014.

I'm trying to develop a policy for maintaining and upgrading the SQL Servers. How often do you upgrade your SQL Servers? Or more specifically, how up-to-date do you keep your SQL Servers and why?

For example:


SQL Servers will be upgraded when the version is not within Microsoft's Mainstream support.
SQL Servers will stay within 2 (two) versions of the most recent version released from Microsoft.


What about SPs and CUs?
How frequently you install Service Packs and/or Cumulative Updates will vary wildly based on your individual scenario. There is no objective one-size-fits-all answer. 

The best general advice I could offer would be to follow Microsoft's advice. As of January 2016, Microsoft's advice is:


  we now recommend ongoing, proactive installation of CU’s as they become available.