SQL Server on Azure VM: Automated Patching Retirement and Replacement with Azure Update Manager

that Automatic patch SQL Server functionality on Azure VMs will end on September 17, 2027.

Auto-patching is deprecated, but we’re happy to replace it. Azure Update Manager. Azure Update Manager is a powerful, enterprise-grade tool that provides:

1. Centralize update management: Azure Update Manager provides a unified dashboard to view and manage updates across your entire environment—including virtual machines, on-premises servers, and even hybrid scenarios.
2. Customize your schedule: Azure Update Manager lets you create custom update schedules based on your organization’s needs. Whether you prefer weekly, monthly, or date-based updates, Azure Update Manager has you covered.
3. Patch Compliance Report: Azure Update Manager generates detailed reports on patch compliance to help you understand the update status across your infrastructure.

Next steps:

Prepare for the transition: We recommend that you explore and become familiar with Azure Update Manager. documentation

Using Azure Update Manager: For new deployments, use the following instead of automatic patching: Azure Update Manager

Start your migration: If you are currently using automatic patching, start with: Migrate to Azure Update Manager To continue receiving future updates on the patching capabilities of SQL Server on Azure VMs, you should migrate as soon as possible. To avoid service interruption, this will be until September 17, 2027.

Help & Support

Please visit Product Description Click here to see the latest resources. Get answers from community experts when you have questions. Microsoft Q&AIf you have a support plan and encounter issues during the migration, create: Request for support

1. Select ‘Technology’ as the problem type.
2. If you would like to subscribe, please select Subscription.
3. In Services, select My Services and then select “SQL Server on VM – Windows”.
4. Select the Azure resource for which you want to create a support request.
5. Enter a description of the problem in the summary.
6. Select “SQL Licensing, Installation, and Patching” as the issue type.
7. In the Issue subtype, select “SQL, CU, Service Pack, or Patch installation failed”.

Learn more about service retirements that may impact your resources. Azure Retirement Workbook. Retirements may not appear in your workbook for up to two weeks after the announcement.