Microsoft's Game-Changing Announcement

In a bold move set to shake up the IT world, Microsoft has revealed that starting July, the much-anticipated hotpatching feature for on-premises Windows Server 2025 will transition into a paid subscription model. Hotpatching allows you to apply critical software updates without the hassle of rebooting—music to the ears of IT admins everywhere!

What is Hotpatching?

Hotpatching is increasingly popular in various platforms, including the Linux kernel and VMware products, enabling security updates to be implemented seamlessly. No more scheduling inconvenient downtime; simply patch and keep operations running smoothly. One Microsoft official even cheekily claimed that with this feature, you might finally get to spend time with your family on weekends!

End of Free Preview: What's Next?

The free preview phase for this hotpatching innovation is coming to an end on June 30th. Starting July 1st, users will need to cough up $1.50 per core each month for access to this beneficial feature. According to Microsoft’s Windows Server Product Marketing Manager, Janine Patrick, and Senior Program Manager, Artem Pronichkin, subscribers can expect up to eight hotpatches annually!

What’s in Store?

The subscription structure involves a three-month cycle: the first month is designated for a baseline update requiring reboot, followed by two months of hassle-free hotpatches. However, for security reasons, the team may occasionally issue non-hotpatch updates that will require reboots, but the goal remains to minimize downtime.

The Future of Windows Server 2025

As Windows Server 2025 progresses toward its General Availability (GA) release, the potential for less operational disruption through hotpatching could be a game changer for organizations. Though the service will require Windows Server 2025 to be managed via Microsoft's Arc hybrid-and-multicloud tool, using Arc won't come with additional charges.

Should You Pay for Non-Disruptive Patches?

Now, the big question is: will you invest in the promise of non-disruptive patches? While Microsoft emphasizes that hotpatching is optional, many users are likely to consider the benefits worth the cost. For those currently enrolled in the hotpatching preview, be aware that you will automatically transition to the subscription model unless you opt out before June 30th.

Azure editions of Windows Server continue to enjoy hotpatching without any fees, providing a silver lining for cloud users.

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