In a significant move, Microsoft has announced plans to discontinue support for several of its products by 2026, including the much-discussed Windows 11 24H2. As Windows 11 approaches its fifth anniversary this year, the tech giant is expected to unveil its future strategies, which will be closely monitored by users and industry experts alike.
Windows 11 24H2 support ends in October 2026
Launched on October 1, 2024, Windows 11 24H2 has been characterized as one of the most substantial and, at times, challenging upgrades. Now, nearly a year and a half later, it is set to follow the fate of its predecessor, Windows 11 23H2, which lost support in November 2025. According to official documentation, support for Windows 11 24H2 will conclude on October 4, 2026. After this date, users will no longer receive security updates or bug fixes, necessitating an upgrade to Windows 11 25H2.
For those contemplating the transition, it is advisable not to wait until the end of support. Having utilized version 25H2 on multiple devices, it is evident that this enablement package retains the same foundational code as version 24H2, ensuring a seamless upgrade experience while maintaining familiar features such as the new Start menu and battery icons. Microsoft has already indicated that it will begin the process of force-upgrading Windows 11 24H2 systems to version 25H2 shortly.
Windows 11 23H2 Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise support ends in November 2026
While support for Windows 11 23H2 for Home and Pro users ended in November 2025, the Enterprise edition remains supported until November 10, 2026. After this date, Microsoft will cease updates for Windows 11 23H2 across Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions, marking a pivotal moment for organizations relying on this version.
Office 2021 support ends in October 2026
This year also heralds the conclusion of support for Office 2021, which has been succeeded by Office 2024. Released on October 5, 2021, Office 2021 will reach the end of its support lifecycle on October 13, 2026, precisely five years post-launch. Additionally, Microsoft has confirmed that support for Office LTSC 2021 and Office LTSC 2021 for Mac will also conclude on this date.
Users have approximately ten months to decide between transitioning to Office 2024, which offers a standalone license, or opting for the subscription-based Microsoft 365, billed monthly or annually.
Can I upgrade to Office 2024 from Office 2021 when support ends in October 2026?
It is important to note that upgrading from Office 2021 to Office 2024 is not a straightforward process, as they are distinct applications. Following the end of support for Office 2021, users will need to purchase a new license for Office 2024, as the former will no longer receive updates. While Office 2021 will cease to function after October 13, 2026, it will not receive critical updates. Alternatively, users may consider Microsoft 365 subscriptions, or purchase Office 2024, which will be supported until October 9, 2029.
Full list of Microsoft products losing support this year (2026):
- .NET 9: Support ends on November 10, 2026. Developers will need to upgrade their applications to .NET 10 (LTS) or another supported LTS release.
- .NET 8 (LTS): Support ends on November 10, 2026.
- PowerShell 7.4 (LTS): Support ends on November 10, 2026.
- Windows Server 2012 / 2012 R2: ESU Year 3 ends on October 13, 2026. Post this date, no further ESU security updates will be available, necessitating an upgrade to a newer Windows Server version.
Microsoft has long been known for phasing out products, yet it consistently demonstrates a commitment to backward compatibility and extended support options. As 2026 approaches, users are encouraged to evaluate their reliance on soon-to-be-retired products and consider their upgrade paths.
