Windows Hotpatch: Reboot-Free Security Updates for Windows 11 with Intune
System reboots are one of the biggest pain points for IT admins and end users. Every time Windows installs security updates, users lose work time, admins deal with frustrated tickets, and productivity slows down.
Microsoft has changed that with Windows Hotpatch — a new capability that lets you apply critical security updates without restarting Windows.
Hotpatching began as a server-focused feature for Azure and Windows Server, but it’s now part of Windows 11 Enterprise, managed through Intune or Windows Autopatch.
Let’s look at how it works, what’s required, and how you can set it up in your environment.
1. The Problem with Traditional Updates
In traditional Windows update cycles, cumulative updates include kernel-level changes that require a reboot to finalize.
This means even minor security fixes trigger restarts that disrupt users and delay patch compliance — especially in organizations with global teams or always-on workloads.
Admins often postpone updates to avoid downtime, leaving endpoints exposed to vulnerabilities.
| Issue | Traditional Updates |
|---|---|
| Reboots | Required for almost all security patches |
| Downtime | Users wait for the system to restart |
| User Frustration | Lost work or delayed access |
| Patch Delays | Compliance gaps between patch cycles |
2. What is Windows Hotpatch?
Windows Hotpatch allows security updates to be installed and activated while Windows is running, without rebooting.
It works by patching in-memory code in system processes instead of replacing entire binaries. The OS dynamically applies updates to active code sections, keeping processes live and stable.
When combined with Intune or Autopatch, Hotpatch ensures that devices stay secure with minimal disruption.
3. How the Hotpatch Model Works
Hotpatch uses a predictable, structured patching cycle that combines both reboot-required and reboot-free updates.
a. Baseline Updates (Quarterly)
- Delivered in January, April, July, and October.
- Contain major system and binary changes.
- Require a reboot to apply.
- Set the foundation for future Hotpatches.
b. Hotpatch Updates (Monthly)
- Delivered in the remaining months.
- Apply in memory — no reboot required.
- Contain only security fixes.
- Keep the system secure between baselines.
In simple terms:
You’ll reboot only four times a year instead of every Patch Tuesday.
That’s a 66% reduction in reboot frequency, improving uptime across the organization.
4. Why Use Windows Hotpatch
For End Users
- No interruptions during critical work hours.
- Fewer forced restarts.
- More predictable updates.
For IT Admins
- Faster patch compliance (devices don’t wait for reboots).
- Lower helpdesk volume related to update issues.
- Reduced patch deployment windows and maintenance downtime.
For Security Teams
- Vulnerabilities are fixed sooner.
- Reduced exposure window.
- Easier to maintain compliance with internal and external standards.
Overall, Hotpatch helps strike a balance between security and productivity — something Windows updates have historically struggled with.
5. Requirements for Hotpatching
To use Windows Hotpatch, your environment must meet specific technical and licensing conditions.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Windows Edition | Windows 11 Enterprise, version 24H2 or later |
| Architecture | x64 only (ARM64 in preview) |
| License | Windows Enterprise E3/E5, Microsoft 365 A3/A5, or Windows 365 Enterprise |
| Management Platform | Devices must be managed with Intune or Windows Autopatch |
| Security Feature | Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) must be enabled |
| Patch State | Device must already be on the latest baseline update |
If a device doesn’t meet these criteria, Intune automatically falls back to standard cumulative updates (which still require reboots).
6. How to Enable Hotpatching in Intune
Enabling Hotpatch via Microsoft Intune is straightforward:
- Sign in to the Intune Admin Center.
- Go to Devices → Windows → Windows updates → Quality updates.
- Select Create policy.
- Under Settings, enable Cumulative quality updates for security.
- Turn on the Hotpatch option.
- Assign the policy to target device groups (for example, Windows 11 Enterprise 24H2).
- Save and deploy the policy.
Note: Since June 2025, Hotpatch is enabled by default in newly created Quality update policies, as long as the device supports it.
You can also manage Hotpatch behavior via Windows Autopatch, which integrates directly with Intune for fully automated update orchestration.
7. How to Verify if Hotpatch is Active
You can confirm Hotpatching is applied on a device by checking its update configuration.
Option 1: Settings App
- Open Settings → Windows Update → Advanced Options.
- Select Configured Update Policies.
- Look for Hotpatching under the applied policies.
Option 2: Event Viewer
Open Event Viewer → Windows Logs → Setup, and look for events referencing Hotpatch or NoRestart updates.
8. Key Limitations and Notes
While Hotpatch is a major improvement, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Security Updates Only: Hotpatch doesn’t cover .NET, driver, or non-security updates.
- Quarterly Reboots: Devices still reboot for baseline updates every three months.
- ARM64 Devices: Support is limited and in preview stages.
- No Auto-Rollback: Failed patches won’t automatically revert.
- Reporting Gaps: Some endpoint security tools may not yet display Hotpatch status correctly.
Admins should continue monitoring update compliance through Intune reports or Windows Update for Business Reports in Microsoft Endpoint Manager.
9. Real-World Impact
Early adopters (including Microsoft’s internal IT) have reported measurable results:
- 66% fewer reboots per year.
- Faster patch compliance across global fleets.
- Reduced downtime and user disruption.
- Improved employee satisfaction due to fewer forced restarts.
For enterprises managing hundreds or thousands of endpoints, this is a huge operational win.
10. Summary
Windows Hotpatch changes the way Windows updates work.
It keeps devices protected, reduces downtime, and simplifies patch management — all without annoying reboots.
If your organization runs Windows 11 Enterprise 24H2 or newer, it’s worth enabling Hotpatch in Intune or Windows Autopatch.
Start with a pilot group, validate performance and reporting, then expand organization-wide.
You’ll quickly notice smoother updates and happier users.
