"2026 has begun with the familiar sound of Microsoft's software Grim Reaper sharpening a blade as administrators peer glumly at the calendar of carnage ahead. Some big beasts face the chop this year. Office LTSC 2021 reaches end of the road on October 13, alongside the final Extended Security Updates for Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2. SQL Server 2016 also transitions to Extended Security Updates."
"Legacy authentication services retirement might trip up administrators. From January 31, legacy client authentication will be blocked by default for SharePoint Online and OneDrive for Business. The block can be lifted for a few months, but becomes permanent from May 1. SharePoint versions 2016 and 2019 reach the end of support on July 14, along with Project Server 2016 and 2019."
"The list goes on, and serves to highlight that while 2025 marked the end for most Windows 10 versions, 2026's retirement roster is equally demanding of administrator attention and planning. Microsoft has given ample notice, but many enterprises tend to operate on a basis of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it", particularly if a fix requires handing cash to Microsoft and its partners. Administrators would be wise to take a long look at 2026's farewells and plan accordingly."
Numerous Microsoft products and services enter end of support or retirement in 2026, requiring planned migrations and security updates. Office LTSC 2021, Windows 11 Home and Pro 24H2, and legacy Microsoft Publisher reach end of support, and Extended Security Updates conclude for Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 while SQL Server 2016 moves to ESUs. Azure retirements include Speech to Text API v3.0, AKS Windows Server variants, and Application Gateway v1. Legacy client authentication for SharePoint Online and OneDrive will be blocked by default, becoming permanent; IDCRL is being retired. SharePoint Server and Project Server 2016/2019 reach end of support, enabling InfoPath 2013 retirement. Organizations should plan upgrades to avoid security and operational risks.
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