Hot Patching Rollout with Windows 11 Version 24H2

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:...

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...

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

Performance Impact: Hot patching may enable Virtualization Based Security (VBS), which can slightly reduce system performance. 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. 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. Trust Issues: There may be trust issues with developers who use hot patching, as it can circumvent certain security measures. 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?...