Microsoft Introduces Subscription-Based Hotpatching for Windows Server 2025

Microsoft has announced that its hotpatching feature for Windows Server 2025, which allows for the installation of updates without requiring a server restart, will be offered as a paid service starting July 1, 2025. This development follows a testing phase that began in September 2024, during which system administrators could utilize hotpatching at no cost.

The hotpatching capability is designed to enhance security and reduce downtime during updates, thereby streamlining the management of Windows Server environments. Microsoft is promoting the feature as a way to minimize the traditional disruptions associated with scheduled maintenance and updates.

According to Microsoft's official blog, the hotpatching service will adopt a subscription model, costing $1.50 per CPU core per month. This pricing structure aims to provide predictability in monthly expenses, ensuring that costs remain consistent throughout the year, irrespective of whether hotpatching is utilized in any given month.

Despite the introduction of this subscription service, Microsoft notes that administrators will still need to perform approximately four server restarts each year to accommodate certain updates. However, the company asserts that the time savings associated with hotpatching could significantly alleviate the challenges typically encountered during the monthly Patch Tuesday updates.

For organizations not utilizing Microsoft's Azure cloud services, the hotpatching feature will be available to those running Windows Server 2025 Standard or Datacenter editions in on-premises or multi-cloud settings, provided they are connected to Azure Arc and have subscribed to the hotpatching service. Organizations currently testing the service will need to discontinue their use by June 30, 2025, if they do not wish to transition to the paid subscription.

In addition to Windows Server, Microsoft has also rolled out hotpatching for Windows 11 desktop clients, available since early April 2025. This feature is accessible to users with E3, E5, F3, or educational A3 and A5 subscriptions, as well as those holding a Windows 365 Enterprise license.