Microsoft SQL Server is not a single product; it has evolved through more than 20 major releases since its 1989 launch, impacting its support and features.
Each version of SQL Server receives around five to six years of mainstream support after its release, which includes both performance enhancements and security updates.
Once extended support ends, no more assistance or updates will be provided, even in the event of critical security vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need to track versions.
The importance of being aware of your SQL Server version is paramount, especially as the older editions like 2016 and 2017 are nearing complete unsupported status.
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