Microsoft Testing Hotpatch Method to Eliminate Forced Reboots for Windows 11
Microsoft is currently testing a new approach to Windows 11 system updates that could eliminate the need for users to restart their computers every time an update is installed. The tech giant is experimenting with a “Hotpatch” update method, which has been used in some Windows Server versions and Xbox consoles.
Hotpatching works by patching the memory internal code of an executing handler without requiring a system restart. This means that users may no longer be forced to reboot their computers during the update installation process. According to sources familiar with the matter, Microsoft plans to use hot fixes to provide monthly security updates in Windows 11, reducing the frequency of required reboots.
In an ideal scenario, users would only need to restart their computers every three months for security updates, while hot patching would be used for other updates. Major security updates, bug fixes, or feature upgrades could still require a restart, depending on their importance.
The latest Windows 11 development channel is currently testing security-based virtualization to enable updates that do not require a reboot. The update is expected to be rolled out to x86-64 machines later this year and ARM64 devices by 2025.
It remains unclear whether hotpatching will be available to all Windows 11 users or reserved for specific editions such as Enterprise, Education, and Windows 365. Microsoft’s initiative to eliminate forced reboots during update installations could significantly improve user experience and productivity for Windows 11 users worldwide.