Office sandbox file security to disappear from enterprise Windows by late 2027, Microsoft confirms

In a significant shift for users of Office version 2612, a phased removal schedule has been established, marking a transition period that will unfold over the next few years. The Current Channel will see the full removal by December 2026, while the Monthly Enterprise Channel will follow suit in February 2027. For those utilizing the Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel, the deadline extends to July 2027.

Interestingly, the timeline also indicates a final removal date of December 2027. This date likely serves as a last opportunity for customers who hold extended support licenses, ensuring they have a buffer before the complete discontinuation of the software.

Isolation overhead

In an effort to enhance security, the introduction of MDAG (Malware Detection and Guard) has shifted the way files are handled. Instead of opening documents directly in the main memory, MDAG utilizes a Hyper-V sandbox to execute files. This innovative approach effectively isolates any potential malware from the operating system, providing an additional layer of protection.

However, this heightened security comes with its own set of challenges. Users may experience noticeably slower document load times, which could impact productivity. While the concept of isolation is sound, the trade-off between security and efficiency remains a topic of discussion among users and IT professionals alike.

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Office sandbox file security to disappear from enterprise Windows by late 2027, Microsoft confirms