Hotpatching Devices Face Temporary Restart Requirements
Microsoft has confirmed that devices using Windows 11's hotpatching feature will require restarts for two consecutive monthly security updates in September and October. This change breaks one of the main advantages of hotpatching, which is to install many security updates without rebooting PCs.
The company says the September update includes security features for Windows components that cannot take effect without restarting the device. Hotpatch devices will also need a restart for the October 2026 security update, and Microsoft expects regular reboot-free hotpatch updates to resume in November 2026.
Microsoft recommends that IT administrators inform affected users about the temporary restart requirement before deploying the September update. They should also review maintenance windows and monitor deployments once the security update starts rolling out.