Frequently asked questions, used terms and acronyms
This article describes the frequently asked questions, used terms and acronyms of SQL Server.
Original product version: SQL Server
Original KB number: 321185
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How do you determine the version of SQL Server when SQL Server is not running?
A1: You can determine the version of SQL Server by using either Method 2 or Method 5 (for SQL Server 2008 and later versions) in the Determine which version and edition of SQL Server Database Engine is running] section of this article.
Q2: How do I map the product versions to product names?
A2: You can use the following table as a reference.
| Version pattern | SQL Product |
|---|---|
| 16.0.x.x | SQL Server 2022 |
| 15.0.x.x | SQL Server 2019 |
| 14.0.x.x | SQL Server 2017 |
| 13.0.x.x | SQL Server 2016 |
| 12.0.x.x | SQL Server 2014 |
| 11.0.x.x | SQL Server 2012 |
| 10.50.x.x | SQL Server 2008 R2 |
| 10.00.x.x | SQL Server 2008 |
| 9.00.x.x | SQL Server 2005 |
| 8.00.x.x | SQL Server 2000 |
Frequently used terms and acronyms
Cumulative update (CU): A roll-up update that contains all previous critical on-demand hotfixes to date. Additionally, a CU contains fixes for issues that meet the hotfix acceptance criteria. These criteria may include the availability of a workaround, the effect on the customer, the reproducibility of the problem, the complexity of the code that must be changed, and other topics.
Hotfix: A single, cumulative package that includes one or more files that are used to address a problem in a product and are cumulative at the binary and file level. A hotfix addresses a specific customer situation and may not be distributed outside the customer's organization.
RTM: Usually means "release to manufacturing". In the context of a product such as SQL Server, it indicates that no service packs or hotfixes were applied to the product.
RTW: Usually means "release to web". It indicates a package that was released to the web and made available to customers for downloading.
Service pack: A tested, cumulative set of all hotfixes, security updates, critical updates, and updates. Service packs may also contain additional fixes for problems that are found internally since the release of the product and a limited number of customer-requested design changes or features.
For more information, go to the following websites: