Microsoft Office and : Countdown to End of Support and What You Need to Know

In less than six months, Microsoft Office 2016 and Office 2019 will officially reach the end of extended support. For users still relying on these versions, this means no more updates, security patches, or technical support. Microsoft has issued a reminder to customers that October 14, 2025, will mark the final day for these software suites, which could have significant implications for businesses and individual users alike.

As organizations and consumers approach this deadline, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with using outdated software and explore alternative solutions that will ensure continued functionality and security. In this article, we’ll discuss the support timeline, the risks of continuing to use unsupported versions of Office, and the options available for upgrading to newer, supported software versions.

Office 2016 and 2019: The End of an Era

Microsoft has set a clear expiration date for Office 2016 and 2019—October 14, 2025. Office 2019 has already reached the end of mainstream support in October 2023, while Office 2016’s mainstream support ended in 2020. After the cutoff date, Microsoft will stop providing updates, bug fixes, and security patches for both suites.

Even though the software will still function, using unsupported versions of Office can expose systems to several risks:
– Security vulnerabilities: Without security updates, your system will be more prone to attacks.
– Compliance risks: Organizations may fail to meet legal or regulatory requirements without timely updates.
– System incompatibilities: Older versions of Office may not work well with newer operating systems or other modern software.

Microsoft has made it clear that this support cutoff also applies to other Office products, including Visio 2016 and 2019, and Microsoft Project 2016 and 2019, all of which will no longer receive support after October 14, 2025.

The Path Forward: Upgrade to Microsoft 365

To address the potential issues of continuing to use unsupported software, Microsoft recommends migrating to Microsoft 365, which provides access to Microsoft 365 Apps. These apps are always up-to-date and come with continuous support under the Modern Lifecycle Policy. Microsoft 365 also offers the added benefit of compatibility with Microsoft 365 Copilot, which brings AI-powered assistance to familiar applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Additionally, for those looking for a more traditional Office experience without a subscription, Office 2024 and Office LTSC 2024 will be available. Office 2024 is a standalone version released in October 2024, while Office LTSC 2024 is a volume-licensed version aimed at commercial and government customers.

For certain specialized systems that require long-term support, Office LTSC 2024 may be the right choice. However, it’s important to remember that Office LTSC is designed for devices that lack internet connectivity, such as medical equipment.

What Undercode Say:

Microsoft’s decision to end extended support for Office 2016 and 2019 is part of a broader shift towards cloud-based solutions and subscription models. By pushing users towards Microsoft 365, the company is encouraging customers to embrace continuous updates and security patches, reducing the risks associated with outdated software.

However, this shift is not without its challenges. Many organizations, particularly smaller businesses or those with legacy systems, may find it difficult to adapt to a subscription-based model. The initial costs of migrating to Microsoft 365 or even Office 2024 can also be a significant hurdle for some.

For businesses that rely heavily on Office applications, this deadline is an urgent reminder to plan for upgrades. Delaying the transition could expose these businesses to vulnerabilities, potentially leading to costly disruptions or security breaches.

On the other hand, Microsoft’s push towards a more modern and integrated ecosystem offers benefits that can’t be ignored. Microsoft 365 is designed for collaboration and seamless integration across devices, making it an attractive option for businesses that need to stay agile and competitive. The addition of tools like Microsoft Copilot also shows how the company is positioning itself to stay ahead of the curve in the AI-driven future of work.

While Office LTSC 2024 may seem like a viable alternative for businesses that need to avoid subscription fees, it’s important to note that this version will only receive security updates for a limited time. For organizations that require long-term support, Microsoft 365 is clearly the future.

Ultimately, the decision between Office 2024, Office LTSC 2024, and Microsoft 365 will depend on the unique needs of the user. The key takeaway is that those still on Office 2016 or 2019 must act now to ensure that their systems remain secure and compatible with the future of productivity tools.

Fact Checker Results

Microsoft confirmed the end of extended support for Office 2016 and 2019 on October 14, 2025.
Office 2019 already reached the end of mainstream support in October 2023, while Office 2016’s mainstream support ended in October 2020.
Microsoft recommends upgrading to Microsoft 365 Apps or Office 2024 to avoid security and compliance risks.