End of Support Announcement for Microsoft Access 2016 and 2019
As Microsoft gears up for a significant transition, October 14, 2025, marks the end of support for Windows 10, as well as several other products, including Microsoft Access 2016 and 2019. Customers should be aware that these versions of Access, which come as part of the Office 2016 and 2019 suites, will also reach their end of life on the same date.
An Overview of Microsoft Access
Microsoft Access is recognized as a user-friendly database management system (DBMS), catering primarily to environments with straightforward use cases and limited concurrency needs. Although it is simpler compared to its more robust counterpart, SQL Server, it serves as an enterprise solution suitable for various organizational requirements.
Implications of End of Support
According to Microsoft, while Access 2016 and 2019 will remain functional post-October 14, 2025, users will no longer have access to critical security and non-security updates, bug fixes, or any form of customer support. This lack of ongoing maintenance means that any vulnerabilities identified in these applications will not be patched. As a result, organizations using these versions may become susceptible to cybersecurity threats, as they may serve as points of entry for malicious actors.
Recommendations for Users
In light of these changes, Microsoft strongly advises customers to upgrade to a version of Access that is still supported. Options include Access 2021 or the upcoming Access 2024, both available through their respective Office suites. However, the company specifically recommends subscribing to Microsoft 365 Apps. This subscription model not only provides access to the latest version of Access but also offers additional advantages like enhanced AI features, cloud storage, and an array of cloud-integrated experiences. Microsoft assures users that the subscription will not compromise the functionality of the application; rather, it enhances it with modern capabilities.
Conclusion
As the deadline approaches, organizations utilizing Access 2016 and 2019 should consider their options carefully to ensure continued functionality and security. Transitioning to supported versions not only mitigates risk but leverages the latest technological advancements that Microsoft has to offer.
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