Microsoft's End of Support for Office and Exchange: What You Need to Know

As of October 17, 2024, Windows users are bracing for an upcoming tsunami of change in their software environment, with Microsoft officially signaling the end of support for several versions of its popular productivity suites and server applications, primarily focusing on Office and Exchange Server. This impending obsolescence underscores the need for users—both regular consumers and IT professionals—to prepare for the shift. With just less than a year until support is cut for Office 2016, Office 2019, and Exchange Server 2019, businesses need to act swiftly to avoid falling behind in security and functionality.

The Countdown Begins: What Versions are Affected?​

Microsoft's end-of-support countdown has commenced, targeting Office 2016 and 2019, with both versions officially reaching their expiration date on October 14, 2025. This aligns with the phasing out of Windows 10, which has similarly been put on notice. For users who rely on Publisher, this can be particularly daunting, as Microsoft has stated there will be no replacement for the application.

A Strong Cloud Orientation​

In typical fashion, Microsoft is nudging its users towards its cloud offerings. Transitioning to Microsoft 365 is undeniably seen as the golden ticket for users looking to stay supported and secure. However, for those who prefer to stick to their on-premise setups, Microsoft offers a somewhat less futuristic option—Office 2024 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel), which allows for continued use without the cloud connection, albeit with a more static feature set.

The Exchange Conundrum​

For users running Exchange Server, the situation is murkier. While Microsoft effectively advocates for cloud migrations, there is presently no successor to Exchange Server 2019, with Microsoft merely indicating a forthcoming Exchange Server Subscription Edition (SE) expected in early Q3 2025—just as the current version's support fades into history.

What Upgrades Entail​

Those using Exchange Server 2019 with the latest updates may still perform an in-place upgrade when the time comes. However, if you're migrating from Exchange 2016, be ready for a headache—this will involve building out new infrastructure and migrating mailboxes and namespaces. It's a process ripe for tension and technical complications, reminiscent of constructing IKEA furniture without the directions—frustrating, perplexing, and often involving awkward discussions about spare screws.

Skype for Business: The Clock is Ticking​

Alongside the Office and Exchange suite, Skype for Business Server 2019 and 2015 are also facing the axe come October 2025. Microsoft pushes users towards Teams, signposting a transition many long-time Skype users may find unsettling.

Navigating the Change: Preparing for the "Gigantic Wave"​

Rob Helm, an analyst at Directions on Microsoft, articulates a concern for enterprises as they prepare for the “gigantic wave” of transitions that await them as support ends for multiple products. As many companies may still cling to earlier Office versions due to unique in-house business requirements, those hanging on may require a robust strategy to address how they will manage their IT services post-cutoff.

Costs and Consequences​

The end of support is not just a technical mismatch; it could translate into heightened exposure to vulnerabilities and security risks. Helm thoughtfully points out that sticking with unsupported products might appeal to companies worried about data security or the complexities of relocating to cloud platform updates.
Furthermore, businesses need to consider the new subscription model that comes with the upcoming products. Microsoft’s move towards a subscription service ties customers into a recurring payment model, effectively dampening the freedom of software ownership in exchange for perpetually updated functionality. It could boil down to a straightforward question: Is it time to jump to Microsoft 365?

Conclusion: Get Prepared!​

With less than a year to go before the wave hits, organizations must act swiftly. They should assess their current software landscape, budget for necessary changes, and ensure that their IT teams are ready to tackle the impending transitions. For some, this may entail the development of a detailed migration roadmap or simply hunting down that one elusive “how can we make this work?” answer in their planning documents.
As October 2025 looms closer, it’s clear that the landscape of productivity software will change dramatically. Whether enterprises choose to ride Microsoft's subscription wave or build their own islands of self-hosted resilience, the time for decision-making is now—before the tide of obsolescence sweeps away what they once knew.

Key Takeaways:​

• End of Support Dates: Office 2016 & 2019 and Exchange Server 2019 by October 14, 2025.
• Options Available: Transition to Microsoft 365 or Office 2024 LTSC.
• Prepare for Transition: Enterprises should budget and develop strategies for migration to avoid vulnerability exposure.

So, as Microsoft prepares to roll out its sunset clauses, the question stands: How ready are you to face this change?
Source: The Register Productivity suites, Exchange servers in path of Microsoft's end-of-support wave