Get ready, Windows Server users! Starting July 1, Microsoft will implement a new monthly fee of $1.50 per core for its innovative hotpatching security updates. This move comes as the tech giant aims to streamline security patches for its massive user base.

In recent weeks, Microsoft faced significant backlash over a previous Windows security update that inadvertently created a controversial folder, leaving many users uneasy. Amidst social media uproar, warnings emerged about potential vulnerabilities introduced by the patch. Now, the stakes are even higher with the introduction of a subscription service for the hotpatching feature, designed to eliminate annoying system reboots after security updates.

What is Windows Hotpatching?

Hotpatching allows for rapid security updates without the need for a system reboot. This functionality particularly benefits Windows 11 Enterprise, version 24H2 users, and is now making its formal debut for Windows Server 2025. Recent confirmations from Microsoft officials promise that these updates will lock in essential security fixes quickly and with minimal disruption.

Microsoft claims that hotpatching enhances availability by reducing downtime and accelerating the deployment process, as updates come down in smaller, faster packages. Most crucially, the lack of necessary reboots minimizes the window of vulnerability, which is the time period between discovering a security flaw and applying the fix. This is vital for organizations that often delay updates, risking their systems.

Who Will Bear the Cost?

To access the no-reboot hotpatch security functionality, users must operate on either Windows Server 2025 Standard or Datacenter, connected to Azure Arc. Notably, while hotpatching has been available for Azure Edition users at no cost, Windows Server 2025 participants will have to cough up $1.50 per CPU core each month.

And here's the kicker: Microsoft states that despite hotpatching's advantages, users will still be required to reboot their servers about four times a year for essential baseline updates.

So, the question remains—will this subscription-based hotpatch service be a worthwhile investment for your organization? The choice is yours!