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Exchange 2016 and 2019 updates end in October
Microsoft says Exchange 2016 and 2019 will get no more ESU security updates after October 2026, with no further extension planned.
Image: BleepingComputer
Microsoft has warned customers that security updates for Exchange Server 2016 and 2019 will stop in October 2026, marking the end of the Extended Security Update (ESU) program for both products.
The reminder follows a 6-month extension Microsoft announced in April 2026 to the original ESU plan, which began in October after Exchange Server 2016 and Exchange Server 2019 reached end of support. Exchange 2016 left mainstream support in October 2020, while Exchange 2019 reached the same milestone in January 2024.
In a Monday blog post, the Exchange Server team said customers had asked whether the program could be extended again.
“Over the last several weeks we have received several questions about possible extension of the Exchange Server 2016/2019 ESU program past October 2026.” “There will be no further extension of Exchange 2016/2019 ESU program timeline. Once October 2026 ends, there will be no further updates for Exchange 2016/2019, even if you currently have a Period 2 ESU.”
Microsoft is telling admins to move to Exchange Server Subscription Edition (SE). Organizations already on Exchange Server 2019 can do an in-place upgrade, which Microsoft says works the same way as installing a Cumulative Update (CU). Admins still running Exchange 2016 or even Exchange 2013 in production are advised either to upgrade directly to Exchange Server SE or to install Exchange 2019 first.
Microsoft also pointed admins to its migration documentation for Microsoft 365 and Exchange Online, which is available as a standalone service or through an Office 365 subscription.
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The announcement comes as Microsoft has been adjusting support timelines elsewhere. In June, the company quietly extended the free Windows 10 ESU program for consumers by an extra year, letting enrolled devices receive security updates until October 2027. Earlier this month, it also said Windows Server 2022 and Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro will hit end of support in 90 days, then move to extended support and continue getting security updates.
Enterprise Editor
Marcus follows the money. He covers enterprise software, cloud architecture, and the tectonic shifts in Big Tech strategy. He translates dense earnings calls and complex M&A activity into actionable insights about where the industry is actually heading. If a tech giant makes a silent pivot, Marcus is usually the first to notice.
via BleepingComputer
