Microsoft has officially announced here when support for certain older versions of Microsoft Office will end. The announced end of support affects the following Office and server versions. There is a link to each version’s support page at Microsoft.
Support ends for these versions of Microsoft Office
- Office 2016 (introduced in September 2015), Office 2019 (introduced in September 2018): Access 2016, Access 2019, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, OneNote 2016, Outlook 2016, Outlook 2019, PowerPoint 2016, PowerPoint 2019, Project 2016, Project 2019, Publisher 2016, Publisher 2019, Skype for Business 2016, Skype for Business 2019, Visio 2016, Visio 2019, Word 2016, Word 2019
- Productivity Servers: Exchange Server 2016, Exchange Server 2019, Skype for Business Server 2015, Skype for Business Server 2019
This is the deadline for the end of support
For all Office versions listed above, Microsoft support ends on October 14, 2025. This is the “Extended End Date”, “Mainstrean Support” ended earlier, although the end date depends on the mainstream support varies by product.
This means the support end for the users
After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide security, bug fixes, or technical support. Using products after support has expired leaves users and businesses vulnerable to potential security threats, loss of productivity and compliance issues, Microsoft explains.
In other words: There is no longer a monthly Microsoft patch day for Office 2016 and Office 2019. In particular, Microsoft no longer closes newly discovered security gaps so that attackers can exploit them for attacks.
This is what users should do
Until October 14, 2025, there is no need for users to switch to a new Office version or another Office. But after that, you should no longer use Office 2016 or Office 2019, at least not on computers that are connected to the Internet or to which removable storage media such as USB sticks or external hard drives are connected.
Microsoft unsurprisingly recommends upgrading to Microsoft 365.
But if you don’t want a subscription, you can also buy Microsoft Office 2021 (on sale since October 2021).
Microsoft Office Home and Business 2021 ESD in price comparison:
Microsoft also offers Office Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC). This allows you to use Office LTSC 2021 until October 13, 2026. Microsoft designed this version of Office for devices that can’t accept feature updates or connect to the Internet.
