Microsoft announced that it will officially end support for its database management software Access 2016 and 2019 at 3:00 PM Beijing Time on October 14, 2025. While these versions will continue to function properly after the end of support, users will no longer receive security patches, non-security updates, bug fixes, or new features. Microsoft explicitly stated that no troubleshooting services will be provided, even with a fee, and warned that continued use could expose corporate data to cybersecurity threats.
As a foundational database management system for enterprise environments, Access is often used for scenarios with low concurrency and minimal security requirements. However, the lack of security updates means sensitive data stored within it may be at risk. Therefore, Microsoft strongly recommends that users upgrade to a supported version as soon as possible, including obtaining Access 2021/2024 through the Office 2021/2024 suite, or even more recommended, adopting a Microsoft 365 subscription model for perpetual licensing and continuous updates.
This end of support reflects Microsoft's consistent strategy of driving technology iteration, but for enterprise users, the cost and timeframe of upgrading may pose challenges. Analysis indicates that small and medium-sized enterprises that rely on Access to process core business data should prioritize evaluating migration options to avoid the risk of data leakage due to security vulnerabilities. Microsoft's move also highlights the importance of software lifecycle management, reminding users to keep up with technology updates.
