Microsoft May Soon Allow Users to Update Windows 11 PCs without Rebooting

Microsoft is reportedly testing a new update method for Windows 11 that will allow the operating system to install critical updates without requiring a reboot. The frustrating wait time might soon become a thing of the past. This method, known as “hot patching,” has been in use on Windows Server and Xbox for some time.

In Short

1. Microsoft is testing a new update method for Windows 11, known as “hot patching,” which allows the operating system to install critical updates without requiring a reboot.
2. Hot patching is expected to debut with Windows 11 version 24H2 later this year.
3. The introduction of hot patching aims to improve the user experience by reducing the number of required reboots.

What is Windows 11 Hot Patching?

Hot patching is a technique that updates the in-memory code of running processes, eliminating the need for a system restart. This method, already utilized in some Windows Server editions and Xbox, allows for seamless updates. Microsoft is reportedly preparing to introduce this feature to Windows 11 devices, marking a significant advancement in update delivery and user experience.

How Does Hot Patching Work in Windows 11?

Hot patching, as per Microsoft’s documentation, is a technique that updates the in-memory code of active processes, eliminating the need for a system restart. This innovative approach allows for the delivery of monthly security updates without disrupting the user’s activities. By directly modifying the in-memory code, hot patching ensures that updates are seamlessly integrated into the system, enhancing efficiency and user experience. This marks a significant shift in how operating system updates are traditionally managed, promising a more streamlined update process.

Benefits of Hot Patching

Hot patching offers several benefits:

1. Efficiency: It allows for faster updates as fewer binaries mean updates install quicker and consume less disk and CPU resources.
2. Reduced Disruption: It lowers the workload impact with fewer reboots, allowing users to maintain their workflow without interruption.
3. Enhanced Security: Hot patching provides better protection as the update packages are scoped to Windows security updates that install faster without rebooting1. This reduces the time exposed to security risks.
4. User Experience: It improves the user experience by eliminating the need for frequent reboots, which can be disruptive and time-consuming.

Hot Patching Rollout with Windows 11 Version 24H2

Microsoft is reportedly planning to roll out hot patching with Windows 11 version 24H2. This significant update is expected to be released in the second half of 2024. Hot patching will initially be available for x86-64 machines. ARM64 devices are expected to receive support for hot patching in 2025. This rollout marks a major step in enhancing the user experience and efficiency of system updates.

Hot Patching vs Traditional Updates

Features	Hot Patching	Traditional Update
Reboot Requirement	Hot patching does not require a system reboot for most updates	Traditional updates often require a system reboot to complete the installation
Update Speed	Hot patching is generally faster as it directly modifies the in-memory code	Traditional updates can be slower as they often involve downloading and installing large files
User Disruption	Hot patching minimizes user disruption as it does not interrupt the user’s workflow	Traditional updates can disrupt the user’s workflow due to the required reboots
Security	Hot patching provides better protection as the update packages are scoped to Windows security updates	Traditional updates provide comprehensive security updates but may leave the system exposed during the update process
Resource Usage	Hot patching consumes less disk and CPU resources	Traditional updates can consume significant disk and CPU resources during the installation process
Scope of Updates	Hot patching is primarily used for delivering monthly security updates	Traditional updates cover a broader range of updates, including feature updates and bug fixes

Please note that while hot patching offers several advantages, it doesn’t completely eliminate the need for traditional updates.

Hot Patching and System Security

Hot patching enhances system security by allowing the OS to install critical security patches without requiring a reboot. This ensures increased security without sacrificing the availability of the machine. By utilizing techniques in the Windows Kernel, updates can be applied without a direct impact on the user. However, users and system administrators often delay the installation of a patch because of the reboot that is frequently required. Hot patching addresses this issue, providing a balance between maintaining system security and user convenience.

Hot Patching Limitations

1. Performance Impact: Hot patching may enable Virtualization Based Security (VBS), which can slightly reduce system performance.
2. Security Concerns: Hot patching could potentially expose users to security breaches if not properly managed. It could be intercepted and modified during the update process.
3. Limited Scope: Currently, hot patching is expected to cover only security updates1. It’s unclear if other updates will be tweaked to work with hot patching.
4. Trust Issues: There may be trust issues with developers who use hot patching, as it can circumvent certain security measures.
5. Limited Availability: Hot patching is currently being tested only with Windows Insiders with VBS enabled.

Reboot Frequency with Hot Patching in Windows 11

While hot patching significantly reduces the frequency of reboots, it doesn’t eliminate them. The system relies on a baseline update that necessitates a reboot every few months. Ideally, only four monthly security updates would require a reboot each year, specifically in January, April, July, and October. Thus, while hot patching enhances the update process’s efficiency, occasional reboots remain an integral part of maintaining system security and stability.

Conclusion

The introduction of hot patching in Windows 11 represents a potentially significant shift in how updates are delivered and experienced. This change has the potential to streamline the update process, minimize downtime, and ultimately improve user satisfaction. As Microsoft continues to test and refine this technology, we can look forward to a future where routine updates no longer force us to step away from our computers.

FAQs

What is a reboot in Windows 11?

A reboot in Windows 11 involves shutting down the computer completely and then starting it up again.

What happens if I don’t update to Windows 11?

If you don’t update to Windows 11, you can continue using Windows 10 until support ends in 2025, after which your system may be at a greater security risk.

Is reboot and restart the same?

Reboot and restart are often used interchangeably. Both involve turning off the device and then turning it back on.

Are there any risks associated with hot patching?

Hot patching could potentially expose users to security breaches if not properly managed. It could be intercepted and modified during the update process.