If you’re still running Microsoft Office 2016 or 2019, the clock is ticking. On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for both versions of the popular suite of software applications, meaning no further bug fixes, security updates, or support will be available.
That might not sound urgent. After all, your Office applications will keep working — but continuing to use unsupported software leaves you wide open to cyber threats that can compromise your business data and disrupt operations.
According to Microsoft: “There will be no extension and no extended security updates. All of your Office 2016 and Office 2019 apps will continue to function. However, you could expose yourself to serious and potentially harmful security risks.”
For example, in June 2025, Microsoft patched two critical vulnerabilities in Outlook — CVE-2025-47171 and the more severe CVE-2025-47176 — that allowed attackers to execute malicious code without requiring user interaction.
These “zero-click” flaws can be triggered simply by receiving a malicious email, leaving unpatched systems vulnerable to exploitation.
Office 2016 and 2019 were both impacted, but the patch was only made available to supported versions. This is exactly the kind of threat businesses face when running out-of-date software.
The Impact on Your Business
When Microsoft ends support, vulnerabilities will no longer be patched, making Office 2016 and 2019 a prime target for hackers. Even routine compatibility with other Microsoft services (like Exchange Online or OneDrive) may begin to break down, leading to functionality issues.
If you’re running these versions in a business environment, it’s time to plan your next move. Kustura recommends two secure paths forward:
- Upgrade to Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is the modern choice for most businesses. It’s cloud-based, always up-to-date, and includes access to premium versions of Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and more—along with built-in security features and seamless collaboration tools.
With Microsoft 365, you no longer have to worry about major support deadlines. Updates are automatic, ensuring you stay protected and compliant with the latest features and patches.
- Purchase a Newer Version of Office
If a cloud-based subscription doesn’t suit your business, you can also choose to purchase a standalone version of Microsoft Office, such as Office Long Term Service Channel (LTSC) 2021 or 2024. This option still provides modern features, but you’ll need to stay mindful of its own future support timeline.
Reminder: Another Deadline Is Looming
The upcoming end-of-support date for Windows 10 and the deadline for Office 2016 and 2019 are arriving on the same day. That dual cutoff could leave systems doubly vulnerable if left unaddressed.
“It’s important to remember that Microsoft is ending support for both Windows 10 and Office 2016/2019 on the same day — October 14, 2025,” says the team at Kustura Technologies. “That date will have significant implications for businesses and consumers alike.”
👉 Read more about the Windows 10 deadline here.
We’ll Help You Choose the Right Path
Kustura Technologies helps clients in Jacksonville and Gainesville navigate these transitions smoothly. Whether you need help migrating to Microsoft 365 or want advice on the best version of Office for your setup, we’ll provide a tailored solution that keeps your business productive and protected.
Don’t wait until October 2025 to act. Let’s plan your upgrade now — before support ends and risks grow. Contact us today to schedule your Office upgrade consultation.
Our solutions include:
- IT Solutions Jacksonville, FL, and IT Solutions Gainesville, FL
- Digital IT Solutions and Managed IT Solutions tailored to your business
- IT Service Company Jacksonville, FL, and IT Service Provider Gainesville, FL
- Specialized Cyber Security Services for both Jacksonville and Gainesville clients
To learn more about how Kustura can keep your software solutions up to date, contact info@kustura.com.