0patch is a third-party security patching solution developed by Acros Security that offers micropatches, tiny, targeted fixes, to address vulnerabilities in software. Unlike traditional patching methods, which typically involve large update packages and system restarts, 0patch works by injecting small patches into a program’s memory during runtime. This allows vulnerabilities to be fixed almost instantly, often without requiring a reboot or the involvement of the software vendor. Its name zero patch reflects its goal of providing near-zero-impact security fixes.

0patch has become particularly significant in the context of Windows 10 reaching End of Support (EOS). Microsoft officially ended support for certain Windows 10 versions (like 21H2) in October 2023, and broader EOS is scheduled for October 2025. After EOS, systems no longer receive security updates from Microsoft, leaving them vulnerable to newly discovered threats. This is a serious concern for users and organizations that rely on hardware or software which cannot be easily upgraded.

Here’s where 0patch steps in. For a subscription fee, 0patch offers continued security patching for unsupported Windows versions, including Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, and now Windows 10 post-EOS. It works by identifying vulnerabilities disclosed publicly or discovered through other means and deploying tiny patches to neutralize them. These micropatches are thoroughly tested and deployed much more quickly than vendor-issued updates, often within hours or days of a vulnerability becoming known.

For Windows 10 users facing EOS, 0patch offers a practical alternative to either upgrading immediately or running the system without protection. Many legacy applications or custom setups can’t run smoothly on newer Windows versions, and hardware limitations may prevent upgrading to Windows 11. In such cases, 0patch allows continued use of existing systems while maintaining a good level of security.

One of 0patch’s key strengths is its agility. Since micropatches are injected in-memory, they do not modify system files or binaries on disk. This means that patches can be added or removed almost instantly, without leaving a footprint, and without the risk of breaking unrelated functionality. For administrators managing large networks of legacy machines, this flexibility is invaluable.

However, it’s important to note that 0patch isn’t a complete substitute for vendor support. It focuses solely on security vulnerabilities and doesn’t provide feature updates, driver support, or compatibility improvements. Nor does it cover every possible security hole; its team selects which vulnerabilities to patch based on severity, exploitability, and relevance to its user base.

Despite these limitations, 0patch is increasingly viewed as a lifeline for those caught in the gap between end of vendor support and the practical realities of upgrading. It enables organizations to extend the safe use of systems beyond official support windows, without incurring the massive cost of replacing hardware or rewriting software prematurely. For users of Windows 10 post-EOS, 0patch may be the bridge they need to transition securely and on their own schedule.

See also: Windows is NOT the only OS