Introduction

In April 2025, Microsoft introduced a groundbreaking feature for Windows 11 Enterprise users: Hotpatching. This innovation allows security updates to be applied without the need for system reboots, marking a significant shift in how operating system updates are managed.

Background on Windows Updates

Traditionally, Windows security updates have required system restarts to take effect. This process, while essential for maintaining security, often disrupts user productivity and can be particularly challenging for enterprise environments where uptime is critical.

Understanding Hotpatching

Hotpatching addresses these challenges by enabling the installation of security updates that take effect immediately without necessitating a reboot. This is achieved by patching the in-memory code of running processes, allowing updates to be applied seamlessly in the background.

How It Works

Microsoft has structured the update cycle into two types:

  1. Cumulative Baseline Updates: Released in January, April, July, and October, these updates include the latest security fixes, new features, and enhancements. They require a system restart to apply.
  2. Hotpatch Updates: Delivered in the two months following each baseline update, these contain only security fixes and do not require a reboot. This reduces the number of required restarts from twelve to four per year.

Benefits of Hotpatching

  • Immediate Protection: Security updates take effect immediately upon installation, reducing the window of vulnerability.
  • Minimized Disruptions: Users can continue their work uninterrupted, as hotpatch updates do not require system restarts.
  • Consistent Security: Devices receive the same level of security patching as with traditional updates, ensuring comprehensive protection.

Technical Requirements

To utilize hotpatching, organizations need:

  • Windows 11 Enterprise Subscription: Including E3, E5, or F3 licenses, or a Windows 365 Enterprise subscription.
  • Compatible Devices: Running Windows 11 Enterprise, version 24H2 (Build 26100.2033 or later) on x64 (AMD/Intel) CPUs.
  • Management Tools: Microsoft Intune to manage deployment of hotpatch updates.
  • Virtualization-Based Security (VBS): Must be enabled on devices.

For Arm64 devices, hotpatch updates are in public preview and require additional configuration, such as disabling CHPE support via a registry key.

Implementation and Management

Administrators can enable hotpatching through the Microsoft Intune admin center by creating a Windows quality update policy. The system automatically detects eligible devices and manages the update process accordingly.

Implications for Enterprise IT

The introduction of hotpatching has several implications:

  • Enhanced Productivity: Reducing system restarts minimizes downtime, allowing employees to maintain their workflow.
  • Improved Security Posture: Immediate application of security updates reduces exposure to vulnerabilities.
  • Simplified IT Management: Streamlined update processes reduce the administrative burden on IT departments.

Conclusion

Microsoft's hotpatching feature in Windows 11 Enterprise represents a significant advancement in operating system maintenance. By reducing the need for system restarts, it enhances both security and productivity, offering a more seamless experience for enterprise users.