AEM Service Packs Vs Feature Packs

Here’s a comparison between AEM Service Packs and Feature Packs, focusing on their purposes and when to use each:

AEM Service Packs

Purpose:

• Service Packs are comprehensive, cumulative updates for AEM.

• They include bug fixes, security patches, performance improvements, and sometimes minor new features or enhancements14.

• They are released regularly and are the primary method for keeping your AEM instance up to date and supported.

When to Use:

• Always install the latest Service Pack to ensure your AEM environment is secure, stable, and supported.

• Use Service Packs for routine maintenance, to address known issues, and to benefit from incremental improvements14.

• Service Packs are mandatory for ongoing support and compatibility with other Adobe updates.

AEM Feature Packs

Purpose:

• Feature Packs are add-on packages that deliver new features, enhancements, or specific product improvements ahead of their inclusion in the next Service Pack or major release.

• They are often released to meet specific customer needs or to provide early access to features scheduled for future releases.

• Feature Packs are dependent on the latest Service Pack and are merged into subsequent Service Packs.

When to Use:

• Use a Feature Pack if you need a specific new feature or enhancement that is not yet available in the latest Service Pack.

• Feature Packs are not required for all users—only install them if your use case or project requires the functionality they provide.

• After the next Service Pack is released, the Feature Pack’s content will typically be included, so you may eventually remove the standalone Feature Pack.

https://experienceleague.adobe.com/en/docs/experience-manager-release-information/aem-release-updates/update-release-vehicle-definitions