Microsoft Hotpatch: Update Windows Instantly Without Reboots

Key insights

• Microsoft Hotpatch is a new update technology for Windows Server 2025 Datacenter Azure Edition that lets security updates install without needing to restart the system, reducing downtime and improving uptime.


• No Reboots Required: Hotpatch applies patches while the server is running, so businesses can keep critical services available and avoid interruptions caused by traditional reboot cycles.


• Integrated Management: Administrators can manage Hotpatch updates using familiar tools like Azure Update Manager and the Azure portal, making it easier to handle updates across cloud and hybrid environments.


• Cumulative and Incremental Updates: Hotpatch packages only download new fixes when available, saving bandwidth and storage. Updates follow Microsoft’s monthly schedule, with most not requiring reboots except for certain baseline releases.


• Azure Arc Support: Hotpatch works with Azure Arc, allowing both on-premises and multi-cloud Windows Server systems to receive updates from Azure, unifying patch management across different infrastructures.


• General Availability in 2025: After a preview phase in 2024, Hotpatch will be generally available as a subscription service starting July 1, 2025. This marks an important step in delivering zero-downtime patching for modern data centers and cloud environments.

Keywords

Microsoft Hotpatch Microsoft update without reboot hotpatching technology Windows updates seamless patching enterprise patch management system security patches instant updates