Microsoft has officially ended support for Office 2016 and Office 2019, marking a significant shift for users and organizations relying on these productivity suites. With the end of support, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance for these versions, increasing the risk of vulnerabilities and cyber threats for users who continue to operate them. This move encourages users to upgrade to the latest Office versions or switch to Microsoft 365, which offers continuous updates and enhanced security features.
The end of support affects both Office 2016 and Office 2019 across various platforms, including Windows and macOS. Organizations still using these versions should prioritize migration plans to avoid exposure to unpatched security flaws that could be exploited by cybercriminals. Microsoft’s lifecycle policy typically provides support for five years, and this milestone underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software to safeguard sensitive data and ensure compliance with security standards.
Cybersecurity experts recommend that users and IT administrators assess their current Office deployments and develop strategies for transitioning to supported platforms. This includes backing up critical data, testing compatibility with newer Office versions, and training staff on new features and security practices. Failure to upgrade could lead to increased susceptibility to malware, ransomware, and other cyberattacks targeting outdated software.
In conclusion, the end of support for Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019 is a crucial reminder of the need for proactive software management in today’s threat landscape. Staying current with software updates not only enhances productivity but also fortifies defenses against evolving cyber threats. Users are urged to plan their upgrades promptly to maintain operational security and leverage the latest technological advancements offered by Microsoft.
This Cyber News was published on www.bleepingcomputer.com. Publication date: Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:50:11 +0000