Microsoft has made headlines recently by unveiling exciting new updates to Windows Server, including a groundbreaking feature known as global hotpatching and the announced deprecation of Windows Server Update Services (WSUS). These changes are set to revolutionize how administrators handle updates while marking the end of an era for WSUS, a service that's been around for nearly two decades.
From the initial implementation in Windows Server 2022, which was limited to Azure virtual machines, Microsoft is expanding the scope of hotpatching. When Windows Server 2025 becomes generally available—expected this fall—administrators will be able to choose where they run their servers—on-premises, in Azure, or elsewhere—while still benefiting from hotpatching capabilities. Whether you’re using a Hyper-V or VMware environment, the ability to keep your servers running smoothly without interruptions is a welcome relief.
While WSUS will still be a part of Windows Server 2025, Microsoft detailed that they would no longer be accepting new feature requests. Existing functionalities will be preserved, and updates will continue to flow through the WSUS channel.
Ultimately, while hotpatching promises to enhance productivity and reduce downtime, IT professionals will have to adapt quickly or risk falling behind in the rapidly evolving world of server technologies.
It's time to start exploring the benefits of hotpatching and the cloud-centric future of server management—because staying ahead of the game is what successful IT administration is all about!
Source: Redmondmag.com Windows Server 2025 Hotpatching Hits Preview; WSUS Hits the End
Hotpatching Comes to Windows Server 2025
What is Hotpatching?
Hotpatching is a game changer for server administrators, as it enables them to apply patches to running virtual machines without the need to reboot them—yielding zero downtime for critical processes. Imagine being able to repair a malfunctioning part on your car without having to stop the engine! That’s the kind of seamless patching hotpatching promises for Windows Server environments.The Role of Azure Arc
This new hotpatching capability will be readily available through Azure Arc, Microsoft's tool for managing multi-cloud environments. This platform simplifies the management of various cloud services and will ensure that the Windows Server internal licensing service for hotpatching runs effectively, delivering updates straight to customers' servers.From the initial implementation in Windows Server 2022, which was limited to Azure virtual machines, Microsoft is expanding the scope of hotpatching. When Windows Server 2025 becomes generally available—expected this fall—administrators will be able to choose where they run their servers—on-premises, in Azure, or elsewhere—while still benefiting from hotpatching capabilities. Whether you’re using a Hyper-V or VMware environment, the ability to keep your servers running smoothly without interruptions is a welcome relief.
Advantages of Hotpatching
- Zero Downtime: Hotpatching allows administrators to implement vital updates without affecting ongoing services.
- Flexibility: The feature supports both physical servers and virtual machines across various platforms.
- Management Ease: Using Azure Arc simplifies the delivery of comprehensive update management across your server ecosystem.
WSUS: A Service Past Its Prime
The Deprecation of WSUS
In conjunction with the hotpatching announcement, Microsoft regrettably confirmed that it will no longer invest in new capabilities for Windows Server Update Services (WSUS). This big decision marks the end of a close to 20-year chapter for WSUS. It was heralded as a robust solution for managing updates, but the IT landscape has shifted significantly.While WSUS will still be a part of Windows Server 2025, Microsoft detailed that they would no longer be accepting new feature requests. Existing functionalities will be preserved, and updates will continue to flow through the WSUS channel.
Transitioning to Cloud Solutions
As an alternative, Microsoft encourages organizations to embrace cloud-based tools for update management, specifically Microsoft Intune and Windows Autopatch for client management, along with Azure Update Manager for server maintenance. This shift reflects a broader trend towards cloud solutions as organizations seek scalable and flexible IT management options.Broader Implications for IT Administrators
This transition toward hotpatching and the decline of WSUS signals a shift in how IT administrators will manage Windows Server updates going forward. The benefits of immediate implementations without interruptions are undeniable. However, this also implies that IT teams will need to invest time in learning new tools and processes associated with Azure and cloud-based management.Ultimately, while hotpatching promises to enhance productivity and reduce downtime, IT professionals will have to adapt quickly or risk falling behind in the rapidly evolving world of server technologies.
Final Thoughts
As we await the full rollout of Windows Server 2025 with its capabilities for hotpatching and the phased-out WSUS, this is a pivotal moment for Windows Server management. Are you ready to embrace these changes?It's time to start exploring the benefits of hotpatching and the cloud-centric future of server management—because staying ahead of the game is what successful IT administration is all about!
Source: Redmondmag.com Windows Server 2025 Hotpatching Hits Preview; WSUS Hits the End
