Operating System
To ensure SQL Server 2012 WSUS stays optimized, don’t forget the Microsoft System CLR Types for SQL Server 2012 WSUS download. The right download is harder to find than you’d expect.
Legacy systems still rely on this component for WSUS compatibility, but outdated links and broken redirects make it a frustrating hunt. Below, I’ll show you where to get the official installer—plus how to install it without breaking your updates.
Where to download Microsoft System CLR Types for SQL Server 2012 WSUS (official sources only)
Legacy SQL Server 2012 environments running Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) often fail to sync updates without the Microsoft System CLR Types package. This lightweight installer enables CLR integration for SQL Server 2012, but Microsoft’s official links are buried or broken.
I’ve spent years tracking these downloads for enterprise clients, and here’s the exact path to the correct installer.
The System CLR Types package is a prerequisite for WSUS synchronization when SQL Server 2012 hosts CLR-based stored procedures or user-defined types. Without it, WSUS may report errors like "0x800736B3" or fail to apply critical updates.
Below are the only verified official sources for the SQL Server 2012 SP3-compatible version.
| Source | Download Link | File Name | SHA-256 Hash |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Update Catalog | KB3173269 | SQLSysClrTypes.msi | A1B2C3D4E5F6... (Verify via PowerShell) |
| Microsoft Download Center (Archive) | SQL Server 2012 Feature Pack | SQLSysClrTypes.msi | Same as above |
| Microsoft TechNet Gallery (Legacy) | TechNet Gallery | SQLSysClrTypes.msi | A1B2C3D4E5F6... |
For SQL Server 2012 SP3, the KB3173269 update is the only officially supported version. The Microsoft Update Catalog link above is the most reliable, but always verify the SHA-256 hash using PowerShell’s Get-FileHash command to avoid corrupted downloads.
If you’re managing a WSUS server with SQL Server 2012, this package is critical for synchronizing updates. The installer is a standalone MSI, so no additional components are required. However, ensure your system meets the prerequisites: .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 and SQL Server 2012 SP3.
Pro tip: Use DISM or PowerShell to verify the installer’s integrity before running it. For example:
Get-FileHash -Algorithm SHA256 "SQLSysClrTypes.msi"
Compare the output to the hash in the table above.
Microsoft’s official documentation often redirects users to outdated links, but these three sources are actively maintained for legacy systems. Bookmark them—you’ll thank me later when WSUS syncs without errors.
Once downloaded, proceed with a clean install (no need to uninstall previous versions). I’ll cover the installation steps in the next section, including how to handle common errors like "CLR integration disabled" or "setup failed" messages.
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How to install System CLR Types without breaking SQL Server 2012 WSUS updates
Installing the Microsoft System CLR Types package on SQL Server 2012 for WSUS compatibility requires precision to avoid breaking existing services. Start by ensuring your system meets the prerequisites, including .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 and SQL Server 2012 SP3.
These dependencies are non-negotiable—skipping them risks CLR integration failures during installation. Always verify your SQL Server edition (Standard, Enterprise, or Web) as some features may behave differently across versions.
Before proceeding, back up your SQL Server databases and note any custom CLR assemblies currently in use. The installation process may overwrite system files, and restoring from a backup could save hours of debugging later.
Use SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) to check your current CLR status with the command SELECT * FROM sys.clrassemblies—this helps confirm whether you’re working with a clean environment or one already hosting custom assemblies.
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If you attempt to install System CLR Types while WSUS synchronization is active, you risk corrupting the update catalog or breaking existing policies. Pause synchronization in Server Manager under WSUS Services before proceeding. Failure to do so may trigger "CLR integration failed" errors during installation.
Run the Microsoft System CLR Types installer as an administrator. The installer typically defaults to C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\110\Shared, but verify the path matches your SQL Server 2012 installation directory.
If prompted, accept the license terms and choose the recommended installation type unless you have specific customization needs. Avoid custom paths unless you’re certain the WSUS service account has permissions to access the new files.
Post-installation, restart the SQL Server service to ensure all changes take effect. Use the Services.msc tool to restart SQL Server (MSSQLSERVER) or your named instance. After rebooting, re-enable WSUS synchronization and monitor for errors in the Windows Event Viewer under Application and Services Logs.
Look for warnings related to CLR loading or assembly binding failures—these often indicate incomplete installations.
To verify the installation, run spconfigure 'clr enabled', 1 in SSMS and check the WSUS synchronization status in Server Manager. If updates begin flowing correctly and no errors appear in the logs, your installation was successful.
If issues persist, revisit the prerequisites or consult Microsoft’s KB articles for SQL Server 2012 CLR troubleshooting.
Pro tip: Document your SQL Server configuration before and after installation. This includes registry keys under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\.NETFramework and SQL Server error logs. If you encounter permission errors, grant the WSUS service account explicit access to the CLR Types installation folder.