Installing SP2 for SQL Server 2008 R2 Express

Question

I need to upgrade SQL Server 2008 R2 Express from SP1 to SP2. Select @@Version reveals 10.50.2500.0

I've downloaded what I think is the correct package but when I try to install I'm prompted to install a new instance or upgrade an existing instance. Choosing the 2nd option eventually gets me to the point of choosing Mixed Mode or Windows Authentication. I know what that is, but, why is it asking me this? I do not want to change ANYTHING about my environment other than installing the Service Pack, including authentication mode, or the password of the SA account, etc.

Am I doing something wrong?

Answer 1

You probably downloaded SQL Server 2008 R2 Express with Service Pack 2 (emphasis mine), from here . This is actually an installer to install an Express instance, not the service pack. The distinction is subtle, but it's important.

Download the Service Pack 2 package independently from here:

http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=30437

You'll want one of these files, depending on whether your machine (or Express instance) is x86 or x64:

SQLServer2008R2SP2-KB2630458-x64-ENU.exe
SQLServer2008R2SP2-KB2630458-x86-ENU.exe

Running this installer should allow you to select your Express instance as a target of the service pack without offering you options to install a new instance or upgrade an existing instance.

While you're at it, you'll also want to download and install SP2 CU#8:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2871401