On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Office 2016 and Office 2019. This is an important milestone for anyone still using these versions, and it’s something businesses and individual users alike need to prepare for. While your Office applications will continue to function after this date, running software that is no longer supported comes with significant risks, both to security and productivity.
What “End of Support” Really Means
When Microsoft ends support for a product, it stops providing updates, including security patches, bug fixes, and technical support. For Office 2016 and 2019, this means that after October 14, 2025, your software will no longer receive protection against newly discovered vulnerabilities. Without these updates, your system becomes more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Additionally, any compatibility issues that arise with new hardware or software may go unresolved, potentially affecting workflows. For organizations that need to comply with regulatory requirements, running unsupported software could even introduce compliance risks.
Why Upgrading Is Essential
Upgrading to a supported version of Office is not just about access to new features, it’s about keeping your data, devices, and business operations safe. Microsoft offers two main options:
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Microsoft 365: A subscription-based service that provides the latest versions of Office applications, cloud storage through OneDrive, and advanced security features. It also enables seamless collaboration across teams through apps like Teams and SharePoint.
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Office 2021: A one-time purchase option for those who prefer a perpetual license instead of a subscription model. While this doesn’t include cloud-based features, it ensures that you remain on a supported version of Office.
Businesses that choose Microsoft 365 can take advantage of enterprise-level security, compliance tools, and 1 TB of OneDrive storage per user, along with ongoing updates that keep software current without manual intervention. Microsoft also provides resources like FastTrack services to help organizations plan and execute a smooth migration to these newer platforms.
How to Talk About End of Support With Your Customers
If your business relies on Office applications or supports clients who do, it’s important to communicate the upcoming end of support clearly. Start by explaining the timeline and what end of support entails. Highlight the benefits of upgrading, including enhanced security, new productivity features, and improved collaboration tools. Offering guidance and resources—like step-by-step upgrade paths or Microsoft support links—can help customers make informed decisions and feel confident in transitioning to a supported Office version.
Taking Action Now
To prepare for the end of support, start by assessing which devices in your organization are running Office 2016 or 2019. From there, determine whether Microsoft 365 or Office 2021 best fits your needs. Beginning the upgrade process well before the October 14, 2025 deadline will ensure a smooth transition and help avoid last-minute disruptions.
The end of support for Office 2016 and 2019 is a reminder that staying current with software isn’t just about convenience, it’s about security, efficiency, and peace of mind. Upgrading now will help protect your data, maintain compliance, and ensure your team continues to work without interruption.
