SQL Server 2008 SP1 is now available for download to existing SQL Server 2008 customers. SQL Server 2008 SP1 includes previous cumulative updates, enhanced installation and Report Builder features, and increased supportability and stability. According to Microsoft, "This Service Pack introduces 80% fewer changes to customer configurations compared to previous SQL Server Service Pack releases. This remarkable decrease is a testament to a revised product development process and updated servicing strategy that is focused on ease of deployment while keeping customer environments stable."
Although there are no new features in this service pack, it does include enhanced features such as Slipstream, Service Pack Uninstall, and Report Builder 2.0. Both Slipstream and Service Pack Uninstall make installing and uninstalling SQL Server 2008 and SQL Server 2008 SP1 easier. Slipstream lets you install SQL Server 2008 and SQL Server 2008 SP1 in a single instance, which means fewer reboots and a faster installation process. Service Pack Uninstall gives you the option to uninstall the service pack separate from the SQL Server 2008 installation. Report Builder 2.0 Click Once enhances the deployment process, making it easier to get SQL Server 2008’s report authoring tool out to end users. You can download SQL Server 2008 SP1 here.
Microsoft also announced SQL Server 2008 Enterprise Edition’s Common Criteria (CC) certification. SQL Server 2008 Enterprise Edition (both 32-bit and 64-bit) passed an IT security evaluation at the Basic Assurance Level. In addition, it was certified by BSI, which is the German government's certifying agency. You can find out more about the certification on the Data Platform Insider blog
