No More Reboots Needed: Microsoft's Game-Changing Approach To Windows Updates

In the world of computing, few things are as universally dreaded as the Windows update process. The seemingly endless cycle of downloading, installing, and rebooting has been the bane of users for years. However, relief may finally be in sight as Microsoft unveils its groundbreaking solution: hot patching.

Scheduled to debut with the Windows 11 24H2 update in the latter half of this year, hot patching represents a paradigm shift in how updates are delivered and installed. Unlike traditional methods that necessitate a system reboot, hot patching allows for updates to be applied seamlessly, eliminating the need for disruptive restarts and the potential loss of data.

While this technology is new to the Windows desktop environment, Microsoft has been leveraging similar protocols for updating Xbox consoles and Windows servers with great success. Now, this streamlined approach is set to revolutionise the Windows 11 experience.

Initially available for X86-based Windows 11 PCs, support for ARM-based computers is expected to follow suit in 2025. Hot patching will primarily focus on delivering critical security updates on a monthly basis. However, users can still expect to restart their PCs for major OS releases, which include bug fixes and the integration of new features.

One notable aspect of Microsoft's new update strategy is the provision of estimated installation times. This transparency grants users insight into the duration of the update process, allowing for better planning and minimal disruption to productivity. Moreover, Microsoft has recently bolstered Windows 11 with over 150 new features, further enhancing the user experience.

Behind the scenes, Microsoft achieves hot patching through the utilisation of advanced technologies such as Cumulative updates. These updates are deployed via Virtualization Based Security (VBS), enabling the patching of in-memory code within running processes without necessitating a restart. While this approach minimises downtime, there are concerns regarding its potential impact on performance, particularly for gaming PCs.

Nevertheless, the introduction of hot patching marks a significant step forward in streamlining the Windows update experience. By reducing disruptions and empowering users with greater control over the update process, Microsoft is poised to enhance the stability and security of the Windows ecosystem for years to come.