Microsoft to implement forced Windows restarts in September and October

Microsoft has announced that Windows devices enrolled in hotpatching programs will require forced restarts during September and October. This change is due to technical requirements for security component fixes in the September update that can only be activated via a reboot.

In addition to the September requirement, October is a baseline month in the quarterly hotpatching cycle, which traditionally involves a cumulative base update requiring a restart. Following these two months, the standard restart-free hotpatching rhythm is expected to resume in November.

The update primarily affects managed enterprise devices using Windows Autopatch, Windows 11 Hotpatch, or Windows Server Hotpatch. Microsoft has advised IT administrators to proactively inform users and review maintenance windows to prevent unexpected disruptions to business activities.