Microsoft has already announced that several key products will reach their end-of-life (EOL) on October 14, 2025. After this date, these products will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. It’s crucial for organizations and IT professionals to plan ahead to ensure continued security and functionality.
🖥️ Windows 10 Reaches End of Support
All editions of Windows 10—including Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise—will reach EOL on October 14, 2025. The final feature update, version 22H2, will be serviced with monthly updates through that date. Afterward, no security updates will be provided unless you enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. It’s advisable to transition to Windows 11 to maintain support and security.
Reference links: Microsoft Learn+1
📦 Office 2016 and 2019 End of Support
Support for Office 2016 and Office 2019 will end on October 14, 2025. These applications will continue to function but will no longer receive security updates, potentially exposing systems to vulnerabilities. Upgrading to Microsoft 365 or the latest Office LTSC versions is recommended to ensure ongoing support and security.
Reference Link: Microsoft Learn
📐 Visio 2016 and 2019
Support for Visio 2016 and Visio 2019 will end on October 14, 2025. Users are advised to upgrade to the latest version of Visio or consider Visio for the web to ensure continued support and access to new features.
Reference link: Microsoft Learn
🖥️ Exchange Server 2016 and 2019
Both Exchange Server 2016 and Exchange Server 2019 will reach EOL on October 14, 2025. After this date, these versions will no longer receive security updates or technical support. Organizations should consider migrating to Exchange Server Subscription Edition (SE) or Exchange Online to ensure continued support and security. Microsoft is offering a one-time, six-month Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Exchange Server 2016 and 2019, running from October 14, 2025, to April 14, 2026. This program provides critical and important security updates but will not be available through regular channels like Windows Update. Customers must enroll in the program to obtain pricing and access.
Reference link: Microsoft Learn+1
📞 Skype for Business Server 2015 and 2019
Both Skype for Business Server 2015 and 2019 will reach EOL on October 14, 2025. Microsoft encourages organizations to migrate to Microsoft Teams to continue receiving support and to take advantage of enhanced collaboration features.
Reference link: Microsoft Learn
🔐 Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program
For devices that cannot immediately transition to supported versions, Microsoft offers the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This program provides critical and important security updates for up to three additional years. Enrollment details and eligibility criteria can be found on Microsoft’s official lifecycle policy page.
Reference Link: Microsoft Learn
✅ Action Steps for IT Professionals
- Assess: Identify all systems running the affected products.
- Plan: Develop a migration strategy to supported versions or alternative solutions.
- Implement: Execute the migration plan, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
- Communicate: Inform stakeholders about the changes and provide training if necessary.
🌐 Final Thoughts
The end-of-life for these Microsoft products marks a significant transition. Proactive planning and migration are essential to maintain security and functionality. By staying informed and prepared, organizations can navigate this change smoothly and continue to leverage Microsoft’s ecosystem effectively.