Security Update Guide Improvement – Representing Hotpatch Updates

Today we are updating the way Microsoft Security Update Guide (SUG) represents the Windows Hotpatch feature to make it easier for users to identify the hotpatch and security updates. Hotpatching was introduced a year ago as a new way to install updates on supported Windows Server Azure Edition virtual machines (VMs) without requiring a reboot after installation. Based on customer feedback, all 2022 and future SUG entries will display hotpatch and security updates as alternative updates for the same impacted product.

Previously, hotpatch updates had different product row than the normal security update package (Figure 1). Following today’s change, hotpatch updates will now be displayed as an alternative update for the same product, similar to the way represent the difference between Monthly Rollup and Security Only updates for Windows 8.1 and older versions of Windows. (Figure 2)

Figure 1

Figure 2

Thank you to all the SUG users who have shared your input. We value your feedback and continue to incorporate it to make the SUG a better experience for all.

Lisa Olson
Microsoft Security Response Center