What's Changing for Microsoft Users in 2025

1. Windows 10 Reaches End of Support (October 14, 2025)

Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This includes all editions—Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education. After this date:

– No more security updates or patches
– No technical support from Microsoft
– Increased vulnerability to cyber threats

What to do:
– Begin migrating to Windows 11 or consider Windows 365 Cloud PCs for flexible, cloud-based computing.
– Audit your device fleet to identify machines that may not meet Windows 11 hardware requirements.

2. Microsoft Authenticator Password Manager Changes

Microsoft is retiring the password manager feature in the Microsoft Authenticator app by the end of 2025. This move aligns with Microsoft’s broader push toward passwordless authentication* using biometrics, passkeys, and FIDO2 security keys.

What to do:
– Export saved passwords from Microsoft Authenticator before the feature is removed.
– Transition to Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) for enterprise-grade identity management.
– Explore passwordless sign-in options like Windows Hello, Microsoft Authenticator passkeys, or third-party FIDO2 keys.

3. Azure Networking: Outbound Access & IP Changes

Two major Azure networking changes are coming on September 30, 2025:

– Default outbound internet access for new VMs will be disabled.
– Basic SKU public IP addresses will be retired.

What to do:
– Use Azure NAT Gateway or configure explicit outbound rules for internet access.
– Migrate from Basic to Standard public IPs* to avoid service disruptions.

4. Microsoft Teams: Classic App Retirement

The classic Microsoft Teams desktop app was retired on July 1, 2025. Users must switch to the new Teams app, which is faster, more efficient, and optimized for AI features like Microsoft Copilot.

What to do:
– Deploy the new Teams app across your organization.
– Train users on the updated interface and features.
– Update any integrations or bots that rely on the classic Teams framework.

Note: As of April 1, 2025, Microsoft globally unbundled Teams from its Microsoft 365 and Office 365 Enterprise suites, meaning new customers have to purchase Teams as a separate license. Existing customers can continue renewing their current bundled plans, but new SKUs labeled “(no Teams)” will be the default for Microsoft 365 E3/E5 and Office 365 E1/E3/E5. A standalone Teams Enterprise license will be available for those who still need it. This change impacts budgeting, procurement, and compliance—especially for nonprofits, which will also see the end of free grant licenses for Business Premium and Office 365 E1 starting July 1, 2025.

5. Microsoft 365 API & Roadmap Updates

Microsoft is making backend changes to its Microsoft 365 services, including:

– API endpoint migrations (e.g., roadmap JSON API changes in March 2025)
– Copilot integrations across Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams

What to do:
– Review your Microsoft 365 integrations and update API endpoints as needed.
– Prepare your organization for Copilot adoption by reviewing licensing and training needs.

The end of 2025 marks a pivotal moment for Microsoft users. Whether you’re managing IT infrastructure, leading digital transformation, or simply using Microsoft tools daily, these changes require proactive planning.

With so many changes on the horizon it’s a good time to take stock of your current Microsoft setup. If you’re unsure whether your licenses still align with your organization’s needs, we’ve broken it all down in our Microsoft licensing guide. It’s a helpful resource for understanding the differences between plans.