Microsoft has extended hotpatching for Windows Server 2022 until October 2027. The updates only apply to Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition.
Microsoft is extending hotpatching for Windows Server 2022 until October 2027. Regular support for the operating system initially had an end date of October 13, 2026. However, the extension only applies to Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition.
Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition
It is important to note that not all devices are eligible for this extension. It only applies to systems running Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition that are enrolled in hotpatch updates. These devices will continue to receive monthly security updates without requiring a reboot.
“Hotpatching is a way to install OS security updates on Windows Server without having to restart your computer. Hotpatching patches the code in the memory of running processes without the process needing to restart,” according to Microsoft.
This means that servers delivered via the regular Windows update channel still require a reboot after installing updates. Furthermore, Microsoft refers to Windows Server 2025, the latest Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release, in its status update to encourage administrators to make the switch.