security features

Hotpatching in Windows Server 2025 allows system administrators to apply security updates without rebooting, enhancing response times to vulnerabilities. Microsoft will introduce a subscription model for this feature starting July 1, 2024, at an initial rate of [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Hotpatching emerges as a significant advancement in the realm of Windows Server 2025, allowing system administrators to implement security updates without the need for system reboots. This capability enhances the speed at which organizations can respond to vulnerabilities, aligning with the growing demand for agile IT operations. However, Microsoft has decided to place this feature behind a paywall, introducing a subscription model that will take effect from July 1, 2024, at an initial rate of .50 per core per month. Notably, users operating on Azure will be exempt from this charge, providing a clear incentive for cloud-based deployments. Previously available in Azure Hotpatching is not an entirely new concept; it has been successfully utilized in various environments, including the Linux kernel, VMware products, and the Xen hypervisor. Microsoft has previously offered hot patching capabilities for Windows Server: Azure Edition and version 2022 within the Azure cloud ecosystem. In August 2024, the company unveiled a preview of hot patching for Windows Server 2025 in Azure, followed by an additional preview for deployments managed through the Arc hybrid and multicloud management system in September. This latest preview marks a pivotal moment, as it introduces hot patching for Windows Server 2025 Standard and Datacenter Edition, enabling on-premises applications of this technology for the first time. Microsoft has characterized this feature as a “game changer,” highlighting its potential to redefine patch management for enterprises. Subscription model and patching cycle Under the new subscription model, Microsoft anticipates releasing eight hot patches annually. However, it is important to note that there may be instances where a restart is still required for security purposes. As the transition to the paid version approaches, users currently in the preview phase will be automatically migrated unless they opt out by June 30, 2024. This move has drawn parallels to Microsoft's previous strategies regarding detailed logs, which have sparked concern among security experts. Critics argue that by monetizing essential security features, Microsoft risks compromising the overall security posture for users who may not opt for these additional services. While hotpatching was initially heralded as a cornerstone innovation for Windows Server 2025, its placement behind a paywall raises questions about the balance between enhanced security and cost considerations for organizations. Read also: Windows Server 2025 updates cause problems" max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50 per core per month, with Azure users exempt from this charge. Hotpatching has been previously available in Azure and is now being introduced for on-premises applications in Windows Server 2025 Standard and Datacenter Edition. Microsoft plans to release eight hot patches annually, although some may still require a restart. Users in the preview phase will be automatically migrated to the paid version unless they opt out by June 30, 2024. Critics express concern that monetizing essential security features may compromise overall security for users who do not subscribe.