Microsoft Warns of End of Support for Access 2016 and 2019

Not only will Windows 10 reach the end of support on October 14, 2025 , but several other Microsoft products are also approaching retirement. This list includes Access 2016 and 2019 - which will also officially end support at the same time.

Access 2016 and 2019 are essentially part of the Office 2016 and Office 2019 suites. Since both of these software services reach the end of their lifecycle on October 14, 2025, the accompanying versions of Access will also 'suffer the same fate'.

Microsoft Access is a simpler, lighter DBMS than SQL Server. This service is suitable for small work environments, not too complex processing needs, few concurrent users and basic security levels. However, this is still a reasonable product for businesses.

Microsoft emphasizes that after October 14, 2025, Access 2016 and 2019 will still run, but with the following limitations:

• No more security updates or bug fixes.
• No new features added.
• No technical support, even for a fee.

In practical terms, if a security vulnerability is discovered, Microsoft will not release a patch. Users who continue to maintain Access 2016/2019 will face the risk of being exploited by hackers as an attack point.

Microsoft recommends customers upgrade to a newer version like Access 2021 or Access 2024 (in their respective Office suites). However, the company prefers to move to Microsoft 365 Apps with a long-term license. This not only ensures regular updates but also comes with many benefits such as AI integration, cloud storage, and modern connected experiences. Microsoft also reassures that using a subscription does not take away the Access desktop application, but also helps exploit many other utilities.