No-Reboot Security Updates Come to Windows 11
Microsoft is working on introducing support for “hot patching” updates on Windows 11 personal computers, which enables installing critical monthly security patches without requiring time-consuming system restarts. Hot patching is already utilized in some Windows Server SKUs and Xbox.
The feature aims reducing workflow disruptions due to forced reboots during regular Windows update cycles. But major updates may still need restarting.
Reboots Needed Just 4 Times a Year
With hot patching, Microsoft expects to cut mandatory Windows 11 restarts for updates to just 4 instances per year – in the quarters starting January, April, July and October – unless pressing issues emerge.
During other months, the monthly security rollouts can be seamlessly installed via hot patches in the background without hampering users via sudden restarts. The company terms it “rebootless updating”.
Support Expected With Windows 11 v24H2 Release
Microsoft intends shipping support for hot patching with Windows 11 version 24H2 slated for later this year for x86-64 devices, while ARM64 machines may get it only by 2025 as integration work continues.
The feature promises balancing patch criticality with minimum disruptions to boost user productivity and experience. But critics contend teething issues around wider compatibility likely.
