Microsoft announced it will end support for Office 2016 and 2019, including Outlook 2019, on October 14, 2025. These versions will no longer get security updates. If you rely on these, you might wonder: What does this mean for me? Will my workflows stop? Not immediately, but time is limited. Let's explore the impact on your email systems and steps to future-proof your setup.
To clarify Microsoft's "end of support," it doesn't mean your software will suddenly stop functioning on October 15, 2025. Your Office applications, such as Outlook 2019, will probably continue to open, operate, and allow you to complete most tasks. However, without updates or patches, your software will gradually enter a technological limbo, where risks and compatibility problems will emerge over time.
Here’s the technical significance of Microsoft’s support ending:
In short, Office 2016 and 2019 will become the digital equivalent of old hand-me-down hardware: useful, but increasingly unreliable and incompatible with the world around them.
If you're especially worried about Outlook 2019—vital for numerous users managing email communications—be assured that it won't suddenly disappear or stop working once support concludes. However, its continued functionality relies on several key factors:
Server Compatibility: Outlook’s ability to handle your emails depends on whether it stays compatible with your email provider’s demands.
For instance:
Numerous email providers, including Gmail and Microsoft Exchange, demand current security protocols like TLS (Transport Layer Security). If your Outlook version fails to support the latest versions of these protocols, it may suddenly lose its server connection.
Because your software will not receive updates to adapt to these changes, there is a significant risk that your Outlook client may fail to send or receive emails correctly.
If you keep using your existing computer with its current operating system, Outlook may function for some time—but only until an issue arises, such as a failure in your PC's hardware or software environment.
In essence, although there's no immediate catastrophe, your dependence on Outlook 2019 (or Office 2016/2019 overall) will gradually diminish. We recommend that you get ahead and prepare for the unavoidable.
Microsoft offers numerous options to help you update and return to using "supported software." Here are your primary options:
Prefer to avoid subscriptions? You can purchase a perpetual license for newer versions of Office. While you won’t get automatic updates like in Microsoft 365, you’ll still gain access to updated features and compatibility. Keep in mind, though, that sooner or later, perpetual licenses will also face end-of-support deadlines.
To be transparent, there are legitimate risks to holding onto unsupported software. Consider the following examples to provide some motivation:
Security Breaches: End-of-support software becomes an open invitation for cybercriminals to exploit software vulnerabilities. Think about the impact of losing sensitive emails - or worse, your entire email account - to hackers.
Determine which Office components you use regularly. If your needs are limited to email, basic alternatives might be adequate. However, if you depend on advanced features in Word or Excel, upgrading the entire Office suite is more sensible.
Whether you choose to upgrade to Microsoft 365 or opt for different software, make sure to back up your Outlook files (.PST files). This guarantees that your emails, contacts, and settings remain intact.
If you're thinking about continuing with Office 2019 or moving to third-party solutions, monitor compatibility with your operating system and email provider. It's wise to spot issues before you're compelled to take action.
The announcement that Support for Office 2016 and 2019 is ending, though expected, highlights the limited lifespan of technology. While it might be appealing to stick with familiar tools, the security vulnerabilities, compatibility issues, and potential problems of using unsupported software make upgrading a wiser and safer choice.
Whether you decide to switch to Microsoft 365 with its cloud-based features, explore other productivity tools, or try a third-party email client, don't remain on a failing platform indefinitely. Upgrading might seem like a hassle, but it's the cost of staying connected in a fast-changing digital landscape.
Is your software setup end of support ready?
By partnering with Datalink Networks, you can ensure a smooth transition from Office 2016/2019, maintaining productivity and security while embracing the latest technology advancements.