Key Microsoft Lifecycle Dates 2024
The Microsoft fixed support lifecycle refers to various stages through which Microsoft software goes from its initial release to the end of support. As we enter 2024, organisations should be mindful of the various lifecycle stages that lie ahead. In this blog, I will outline various key dates that may drive retirement, consolidation, and modernisation of existing Microsoft technology. This is important from a licensing perspective because changes may enable cost savings and or an increase in costs. Organisations must also be aware of heightened security risks and possible operational disruptions when running unsupported software. Before we examine these dates let’s do a quick recap of each support phase.
Mainstream Support: First phase of a product’s lifecycle. During this phase, Microsoft provides regular updates, bug fixes, security patches, and other support services. Mainstream support typically lasts for five years from the product’s general availability.
Extended Support: After mainstream support, a product enters the extended support phase for an average of 5 years. In this phase, Microsoft continues to provide security updates and bug fixes, but other non-security updates may be limited.
Extended Security Updates: ESUs are most suitable for customers requiring an extended timeframe to transition from specific legacy products. While having an assurance that Microsoft will address security vulnerabilities. Microsoft provides ESUs at no extra cost when migrating specific workloads to Azure. However, customers aiming to utilize ESUs for on-premises workloads can anticipate an additional cost, provided they hold the requisite base licenses qualifying them for ESU purchase.
End of Support: Once a product reaches the end of extended support, Microsoft no longer provides updates or support for the product. It is in this phase that users are encouraged to retire and or modernise.
Mainstream Support Ending In 2024
Windows Client 10 GAC 21H2 Mainstream support ends June 2024
Windows Client 10 LTSC 2019 Mainstream support ends January 2024
Windows Client 11 GAC 21H2 Mainstream support ends October 2024
Windows Server 2019 Mainstream support ends January 2024
Azure Stack 22H2 Mainstream support ends April 2024
Microsoft 365 Apps 2208 Mainstream support ends March 2024
Exchange Server 2019 Mainstream support ends January 2024
SharePoint Server 2019 Mainstream support ends January 2024
SharePoint Server SE 23H2 Mainstream support ends March 2024
SharePoint Server SE 24H1 Mainstream support ends September 2024
Skype for Business Server 2019 Mainstream support ends January 2024
Project Server 2019 Mainstream support ends January 2024
Project Client Online Desktop 2208 Mainstream support ends March 2024
System Center 2019 Mainstream support ends April 2024
Configuration Manager Current Branch 2207 Mainstream support ends February 2024
Configuration Manager Current Branch 2211 Mainstream support ends June 2024
Visual Studio 2019 16.11 Mainstream support ends April 2024
.NET 6.0 Mainstream support ends November 2024
.NET 7.0 Mainstream support ends May 2024
Extended Support Ending In 2024
Dynamics 365 Server CRM Server 2013 SP1 extended support ends January 2024
Dynamics 365 Server CRM Server 2015 extended support ends January 2025
SQL Server 2014 SP3 extended support ends July 2024
Visual Studio 2013 Update 5 extended support ends April 2024
ESU Ending In 2024
Windows Server 2008 SP2 (Azure only) ESU ends January 2024
Windows Server R2 2008 SP1 (Azure only) ESU ends January 2024
This blog should only be used for guide purposes as Microsoft lifecycle dates are subject to change, current lifecycle dates can be found <add link>
Further Information
As license experts, we are familiar with a wide range of license considerations associated with Microsoft technology. We are happy to help with any license queries you may have associated with key Microsoft lifecycle dates. Please go to our website or contact us with any questions.
About the Author:
Karl is a Principal Licensing Consultant at Version 1, providing Microsoft license expertise to organisations globally and ensuring customers get the best value from their Microsoft assets.
