Exchange 2016/2019 End of Life: What You Need to Know
As we approach October 14th, 2025, it's important to be aware that Exchange 2016 and 2019 will be reaching their end of life. This means that no additional cumulative updates or security updates will be released for these versions. Instead, Exchange Server Subscription Edition (SE) will take their place.
Introducing Exchange Server Subscription Edition
Exchange Server SE will be available for download from the M365 admin center in early Q3 of 2025. The licensing model is changing and will be the same as SharePoint Server SE, which requires active subscription licenses or licenses with Software Assurance for servers and users. Hybrid deployments will continue to receive a free license via the Hybrid Configuration Wizard.
Key Changes and Requirements
- End of Support for Exchange 2013: Exchange 2013 will no longer be supported in the organization.
- Upgrade Path: Exchange 2016 must be upgraded to Exchange 2019 CU15 before Exchange SE can be deployed.
Benefits of Upgrading to Exchange SE
Upgrading to Exchange Server SE comes with several benefits:
- Enhanced Security: Exchange SE will include the latest security features and updates, ensuring your organization is protected against the latest threats.
- Improved Performance: With optimized performance features, Exchange SE will provide a more efficient and reliable email experience.
- Simplified Management: The new licensing model and integration with the M365 admin center will make managing your Exchange environment easier and more streamlined.
- Future-Proofing: By upgrading to Exchange SE, your organization will be prepared for future updates and enhancements, ensuring long-term support and compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What happens if we don't upgrade to Exchange SE by the end of life date? A: If you don't upgrade by October 14th, 2025, your Exchange 2016 and 2019 servers will no longer receive security updates or cumulative updates, which could leave your organization vulnerable to security threats.
Q: Will there be any cost associated with upgrading to Exchange SE? A: Yes, the licensing model for Exchange SE will require active subscription licenses or licenses with Software Assurance for servers and users. However, hybrid deployments will continue to receive a free license via the Hardware Configuration Wizard[1].
Q: Can we upgrade directly from Exchange 2016 to Exchange SE? A: No, you must first upgrade Exchange 2016 to Exchange 2019 CU15 before deploying Exchange SE[1].
Q: What are the key benefits of upgrading to Exchange SE? A: Upgrading to Exchange SE provides enhanced security, improved performance, simplified management, and future-proofing for your organization's email infrastructure[1].
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Exchange Server Roadmap Update and the guide on upgrading your organization from current versions to Exchange Server SE on the Microsoft Community Hub[1][2].
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need assistance with the upgrade process, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to help you navigate these changes and ensure a smooth transition to Exchange Server SE.
Feel free to let me know if you need any adjustments or additional information!
