Microsoft announced end of support for Skype for Business Server 2015 and 2019 - What are the options?

Microsoft has announced that support for Skype for Business Server 2015 and Skype for Business Server 2019 will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, there will be no more technical support services, bug fixes or security updates. To avoid potential security risks and compatibility issues, Microsoft recommends migrating to Microsoft Teams.

Alternatively, there is the option to Inplace upgrade to Skype for Business Server Subscription Edition (SE), which will be released in early Q3 2025. For organizations currently using Skype for Business Server 2015, Microsoft recommends an upgrade to Skype for Business Server 2019 for a quick and easy (inplace) upgrade to the SE version at a later date. It is also possible to upgrade from Skype for Business Server 2015 to Skype for Business Server SE.

Some important notes regarding this announcement:

• The recommended update path to Skype for Business Server SE is from Skype for Business Server 2019 with Cumulative Update 8 and any Security Updates (SU) and Hotfixes (HF) that may be released.
• Microsoft also offers participation in the Skype for Business Server Technology Adoption Program (TAP), a beta program in which companies can test new Skype for Business Server versions before the official release.
• Other Microsoft products such as Exchange Server or Office 2016 will also soon reach the end of support.

For detailed information and instructions, Microsoft has published official articles:

• Skype for Business Server Roadmap Update - Microsoft Community Hub
• End of Support for Skype for Business Server 2015 and Skype for Business Server 2019: T-12 Months - Microsoft Community Hub

It is strongly recommended to start planning the migration or upgrade as soon as possible to avoid problems at the end of support.