Office 2016 & Office 2019: end of support (October 14, 2025) — what to do now?

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft is ending support for Office 2016 and 2019. In practical terms: no more security patches, no more official support, and decreasing compatibility with cloud services (Outlook/Exchange Online, OneDrive, Teams, connectors). For an SMB, staying on these versions means accepting an increased risk of vulnerabilities and unpredictable service disruptions.

The Essentials

• Office 2016 and Office 2019 reach end of support on October 14, 2025.
• There is no extension or ESU for these perpetual versions.
• The apps will continue to work, but the security/compatibility risk increases after 2025.

Your Replacement Options

1) Microsoft 365 Apps (subscription)

Latest features (and AI depending on license), best Exchange/SharePoint/OneDrive compatibility, continuous updates. Recommended by default for SMBs/NPOs.

2) Office LTSC (perpetual license)

Office LTSC 2021 (support until October 13, 2026) and Office LTSC 2024 (released 2024, 5 years of support). Ideal for fixed/offline workstations.

3) Web-based office suites / alternatives

Office for the web, ChromeOS Flex + Google Workspace depending on profile, or LibreOffice/OnlyOffice suites for specific needs.

Technical impacts to anticipate

• Security: no more patches for Office 2016/2019 after 2025 (macro/VBA, formats) → increased attack surface.
• Interoperability: older Outlook clients = degraded compatibility/security with modern cloud services.
• Add‑ins & macros: test VSTO/WEB add-ins and VBA in the target environment (Microsoft 365 Apps or LTSC).

Recommended migration plan

1. Map versions/editions, add‑ins, templates, macros, fonts.
2. Choose the target: Microsoft 365 Apps (default) or Office LTSC for constrained machines.
3. Pilot (10–15%): validate critical documents (heavy PPTX, Excel PivotTables, mail merges, add‑ins).
4. Deployment: via Intune/ODT for Microsoft 365 Apps, or ISO for LTSC; choose the right update channel.
5. Quick training: co‑authoring, OneDrive/SharePoint, secure sharing.
6. Removal: uninstall legacy versions, lock unsigned macros.

FAQ — Office 2016/2019

Can I continue using Office 2016/2019 after 2025?

Yes, but without security patches: at your own risk. Microsoft recommends Microsoft 365 Apps or a recent LTSC.

Are there ESU (Extended Security Updates) for Office 2016/2019?

No, Microsoft has not planned ESU for these Office products.