Microsoft Extends Support for Windows Server 2022 Hotpatching Until October 2027
In a move that will come as welcome news to many organizations, Microsoft has announced that it is extending support for hotpatching in Windows Server 2022 until October 2027. This means that systems running the Datacenter: Azure Edition of this operating system can continue to receive monthly security updates without requiring a restart, at least for another year.
Hotpatching is a key feature that allows Windows to deploy security updates by patching the in-memory code of running processes without restarting them after each installation or rebooting the device. This approach has several benefits, including maintaining uptime, reducing servicing disruptions, and shortening the time it takes to respond to vulnerabilities. However, not all types of updates can be installed using hotpatching – for example, non-security updates such as .NET patches still require a restart.
The extension of support for hotpatching in Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition is effective immediately and applies only to systems that are enrolled in hotpatch updates. This change means that organizations will have more time to take advantage of the benefits offered by this feature, which has been available since February 2022.
It’s worth noting that the mainstream end date for Windows Server 2022 was originally set at October 2026, but Microsoft is now giving customers an extra year to plan and prepare for its eventual retirement. The Datacenter, Datacenter: Azure Edition, Essentials, and Standard editions of Windows Server 2022 will reach the extended end date on October 14, 2031.
Microsoft’s decision to extend support for hotpatching in Windows Server 2022 is likely a response to customer demand and feedback. As we’ve reported previously, many organizations rely heavily on this feature to maintain their uptime and security posture. By extending its availability, Microsoft is giving these customers more time to take advantage of the benefits offered by hotpatching.
In related news, Microsoft has announced that it will enable hotpatch security updates by default for all eligible Windows devices managed through the Microsoft Graph API and Microsoft Intune starting with the May 2026 Windows security update. This move is likely to make it even easier for organizations to take advantage of hotpatching and improve their overall security posture.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s decision to extend support for hotpatching in Windows Server 2022 is a welcome development that will give organizations more time to plan and prepare for the eventual retirement of this operating system. As always, we recommend that customers carefully evaluate their own needs and circumstances before making any decisions about their use of hotpatching or other security features.
Practical takeaway: If you’re running Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition and are currently enrolled in hotpatch updates, you can continue to receive monthly security updates without requiring a restart until at least October 2027. Be sure to review your organization’s specific needs and circumstances before making any decisions about your use of hotpatching or other security features.
Source: Bleeping Computer — 2026-06-29