End of support for Microsoft Office 2016/2019: What you should know and do now
Extended support for Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019 will end in the fall. In this blog post, you will learn about the consequences of the end of support, what options you have and what steps you should take to keep your working environment secure and productive.
Important information about the announcement
Microsoft has dated the end of support for Office 2016 and Office 2019 to October 14, 2025. After this date, no more security updates, bug fixes or technical support will be provided by Microsoft. Although the software can still be used, this poses significant security risks and may affect compatibility with modern software.
What should you do now?
Our recommendation: Upgrade to Microsoft 365 Apps
Microsoft 365 Apps is the cloud-based software-as-a-service successor to Office and offers regular updates, new functions and a higher level of security. Licensing is based on a flexible subscription model, which is particularly suitable for companies as it allows easy adaptation to user numbers and costs. Microsoft 365 Apps can also be purchased more cost-effectively as part of a license bundle with other Microsoft 365 services.
Depending on requirements, the provision of new functions can be controlled via various update channels. A licensed user account allows Office to be used on multiple end devices. This option is the recommended solution for most use cases.
Migration to Office 2021/2024
For users who prefer a one-time license model, Office 2021 or - even better - Office 2024 are suitable alternatives. However, these versions also only offer limited support periods and, unlike Microsoft 365 Apps, do not receive regular updates during their lifecycle.
Continued use of Office 2016/2019
Alternatively, it is also possible to continue using Office 2016/2019 after the end of support. However, this is not recommended, as the lack of security updates can make systems vulnerable to cyberattacks. Compatibility problems could also occur more frequently.
Why act now?
The end of support not only means an increased security risk, but can also significantly affect productivity and collaboration within the team. Proactive action ensures smooth operation.
Recommendations for action
Check your current inventory
Identify which Office versions are in use in your company and which use cases they support.
Define your requirements
Evaluate whether Microsoft 365 Apps or Office 2021/2024 is a better fit for your business and technology needs.
- Microsoft 365 Apps: Ideal for companies that want to benefit from cloud features, regular updates and flexible licensing models.
- Office 2021/2024: Suitable for companies that prefer a traditional license model or need to cover specific scenarios.
Plan the migration carefully
Start planning an upgrade at an early stage. Take this into account:
- Training for employees
- Adjustments to software distribution, especially if you are migrating from Office 2016 or older versions
- Integration of the new software into the existing infrastructure
- Staggered migration of different user groups
If you are still using the 32-bit version of Office, check whether it also makes sense to switch to the 64-bit architecture recommended by Microsoft during the migration.
Minimize migration risks
Carry out pilot projects in relevant areas of the company to test the new Office version. Plan a rollback or workaround strategy in case problems occur. This will ensure that your employees remain able to work during the migration and only have no Office for a short period of time.
Conclusion
The end of extended support for Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019 is the ideal time to shape the future of your IT solutions. By planning your migration to Microsoft 365 Apps or Office 2021/2024 in good time, you can secure state-of-the-art technologies and remain competitive.
We are at your side as an experienced IT service provider. From selecting the right solution, planning, piloting and implementing the migration to training your employees - we support you every step of the way.
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SPIRIT/21 and Microsoft: Your partner for Azure Cloud, Business Applications, IT Security and Smart Workplace solutions.
Jens Reichardt
Business Development Executive
E-Mail: jreichardt@spirit21.com
Jens is an expert in the field of device management and Modern Workplace. Whether it’s iOS, Android, Windows or macOS, you are in the best hands with Jens if you have any questions.
