Hotpatching is a method of applying security updates to an operating system without a system reset. It works by patching the in-memory code of running processes, allowing updates to take effect immediately without disrupting ongoing workloads. This approach significantly reduces downtime and provides faster protection against security vulnerabilities.
Microsoft announced that Windows Server 2025 Hotpatching, a service that allows administrators to apply security updates without restarting, will now require a paid subscription.
Before Hotpatching became widely available in July, when administrators had to pay for a subscription to test it, the business encouraged administrators to test it for free.
To avoid automatic subscriptions in July, Redmond has warned those who tested Windows Server 2025 Hotpatching in Preview to opt out of the list by June 30.
On July 1, 2025, Hotpatching for Windows Server 2025—which was first made available in Preview in 2024—will be made widely accessible as a subscription service. Microsoft said, "With Hotpatching, we are bringing a previously Azure-only feature to Windows Server machines outside of Azure through Azure Arc."
"Hotpatching is available now at no charge in preview, but starting with the subscription launch in July, Hotpatching for Windows Server 2025 will be offered as a subscription for $1.50 USD per month per CPU core."
Using Hotpatching in on-premises or multi-cloud scenarios requires a Hotpatch service subscription and an Azure Arc-connected server running Windows Server 2025 Standard or Datacenter.
Connect your server to Azure Arc by following these instructions, then select your Azure Arc-enabled server in Azure Update Manager in the Azure portal and check the Hotpatching option explained here.
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