End of Support for Office 2016 and 2019: What You Need to Know

Microsoft has officially announced that support for Office 2016 (including Professional Plus) and Office 2019 (including Professional Plus) will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, these versions will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. Although the applications will still function, continuing to use unsupported software could expose your system to security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues.

What Does End of Support Mean?

Once support for Office 2016 and 2019 ends, Microsoft will stop providing:

  • Security Updates: Critical security patches that protect against malware and vulnerabilities will no longer be available.

  • Bug Fixes: No further software performance or stability fixes will be issued.

  • Technical Support: Microsoft’s customer support will no longer assist with troubleshooting or issues.

Using outdated Office versions post-October 2025 could leave your systems vulnerable to emerging security threats and compatibility issues with newer software and operating systems.

Upgrade Options to Consider

To maintain security and functionality, consider upgrading to the following options:

1. Microsoft 365 Subscription

Microsoft 365 offers continuous updates, cloud integration, and seamless access across devices. Key benefits include:

  • Always Updated: Receive the latest features and security patches.

  • Cloud Services: Full integration with OneDrive for cloud storage and collaboration.

  • Cross-Device Access: Use Office apps on multiple devices.

This option ensures you’re always on the latest version, eliminating the need for manual updates.

2. Office 2021 Perpetual License

For those preferring a one-time purchase:

  • No Subscription Costs: Pay once and use the software for life.

  • Core Features: Get the basic Office apps without cloud-based enhancements.

However, it’s important to note that Office 2021 does not offer the same cloud integration and AI-driven tools as Microsoft 365.

3. Explore Alternative Productivity Suites

If Microsoft Office no longer fits your needs, explore these alternatives:

  • Google Workspace: Offers cloud-based tools like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides.

  • LibreOffice: A free, open-source suite that supports various file formats.

These alternatives may offer similar functionality at a lower cost.

Affordable Licensing Options

If you prefer to stick with Microsoft’s ecosystem:

  • Office 2016 Professional Plus: For users who need essential functionality without a subscription.

  • Microsoft Office 2019 Professional Plus: For those needing more advanced features but without the cloud integration of Microsoft 365.

Both options offer multi-device licenses, making them suitable for families and businesses.

Step-by-Step Guide for Upgrading

  1. Assess Your Needs: Determine which features are essential for your workflow.

  2. Check Compatibility: Verify that your hardware meets the requirements for the newer software.

  3. Backup Data: Save all important documents and settings before making any changes.

  4. Choose Your Upgrade Path: Decide between Microsoft 365, Office 2021, or an alternative productivity suite.

  5. Install and Configure: Follow installation instructions to set up the new software.

Final Thoughts

As the end of support for Office 2016 and 2019 approaches, it’s crucial to plan ahead. Upgrading to a newer version ensures continued security, access to new features, and seamless integration with modern tools. Whether you opt for Office 2021, Microsoft 365, or an alternative, the upgrade will safeguard your system from potential risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens if I continue using Office 2016 or 2019 after October 14, 2025?
A1: These applications will continue to work, but they will no longer receive security updates or support, leaving your systems vulnerable to threats and compatibility issues.

Q2: Is upgrading to Microsoft 365 mandatory?
A2: No, upgrading is not mandatory. You can also consider upgrading to Office 2021 or using alternative productivity suites.

Q3: Can I transfer my files to a newer version of Office?
A3: Yes, documents created in Office 2016 or 2019 are fully compatible with the latest Office versions.

Q4: Are there free alternatives to Microsoft Office?
A4: Yes, LibreOffice and Google Workspace provide free or low-cost alternatives with similar functionality.

Q5: How do I check if my computer can run the latest version of Office?
A5: Check Microsoft’s official system requirements to ensure your hardware is compatible with the latest Office versions.