ERP Modernization, Microsoft Dynamics 365

Microsoft End of Support 2023 — All You Need to Know

Technology constantly evolves, including software product lifecycles. Microsoft End of Support (EOS) is crucial in this cycle, but what does it truly signify? In simple terms, EOS refers to the point when Microsoft discontinues updates, security patches, and technical assistance for a specific product. This means that if you continue to use the product, you are at risk of security vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and productivity losses.

What happens when a product reaches EOS?

If you continue to use the product beyond its end of support, the risks tend to escalate over time. Microsoft releases new versions of its products, and older products may become incompatible with the new versions. This leaves you exposed to compatibility problems, performance issues, and data loss. It’s a critical phase that demands attention and proactive measures to ensure your systems remain secure and resilient.

Why Microsoft ends support for its products

Products become more challenging and costly to maintain as they age. Microsoft creates new products and features all the time. Additionally, it prioritizes customer safety by protecting them from the security risks associated with outdated products.

List of the products that are reaching EOS in 2023

Dynamics AX 2012 R3
Dynamics NAV 2013
Dynamics NAV 2013 R2
Dynamics GP 2013
Dynamics GP 2013 R2

List of the products moving to Extended Support

Dynamics GP 2018
Dynamics GP 2018 R2
Dynamics NAV 2018
Dynamics 365 Business Central on-premise (fixed policy)

Check the Microsoft Support Lifecycle website for complete details on your product’s support milestone dates.

What does this mean for your business?

Continued usage of an outdated Dynamics AX, GP, or NAV can lead to many problems, such as the following:

Security vulnerabilities
Organizations that continue to use unsupported versions of Dynamics systems are at increased risk of security vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities could allow hackers to access sensitive data or even take control of the organization’s systems.
Compliance issuesYou will be at risk of compliance issues. This is because Microsoft no longer provides security updates or bug fixes for these versions, which means they may not comply with industry regulations.
Integration and compatibility challenges
As newer technologies and systems evolve, unsupported software may become incompatible with other applications and services used within the organization. This can create integration challenges and hinder overall business operations.
Missed enhancements and features
Newer versions of Dynamics products often come with valuable features, enhancements, and performance improvements. When you stay with the unsupported versions, you will miss opportunities to leverage these advancements, which could lead to reduced efficiency and competitiveness in the long run.
Increased maintenance costs
Continued use of unsupported legacy Dynamics ERP systems may also incur increased costs. This is because you will need to pay for third-party support or the development of custom patches.
Decreased vendor support
After EOS, the vendor (Microsoft) will no longer provide official support or assistance for the software. This means that organizations will have to rely on internal resources or third-party consultants for any necessary troubleshooting or help.

End of Support for Dynamics AX (Axapta) 2012 R3

Listing	Start Date	Mainstream End Date	Extended End Date
Dynamics AX 2012 R3	Aug 1, 2014	Oct 12, 2021	Jan 10, 2023

Microsoft has announced the end of extended support for AX 2012 R3 on January 10th, 2023. For businesses still using AX 2012, this is an opportunity to future-proof your business and ensure you have the tools you need to succeed.

Benefits of upgrading from Dynamics AX 2012 to Dynamics 365 F&O

Integrated AI automates tasks and provides valuable insights for better decisions.
Cloud-enabled analytics offer real-time data insights for informed operations.

Business process automation streamlines tasks and empowers employees for strategic focus.

End of Support for Dynamics NAV (Navision) 2013; NAV 2013 R2

Listing	Start Date	Mainstream End Date	Extended End Date
Dynamics NAV 2013	Dec 19, 2012	Jan 9, 2018	Jan 10, 2023
Dynamics NAV 2013 R2	Dec 30, 2013	Jan 9, 2018	Jan 10, 2023

Microsoft announced the end of extended support for Dynamics NAV 2013 and NAV 2013 R2 on January 10th, 2023.

Each Dynamics NAV version is supported for 10 years. The first 5 years include new features, security, and non-security updates (mainstream support), and the next 5 years only have security updates (extended support). Beyond the End of Support, no updates will be available. This helps customers plan and receive continuous support for their software.

Benefits of upgrading from Dynamics NAV to Dynamics 365 Business Central

Sustained innovation and support
Experience uninterrupted access to progressive product updates, security enhancements, and cutting-edge features.

Effortless migration
The migration to Business Central is designed to ensure a smooth transfer of your valuable data, configurations, and customizations.

Powered by the Cloud
Embrace the cloud-driven capabilities of Dynamics 365 Business Central, which empowers your organization with enhanced scalability, flexibility, and accessibility.

Prolonged Support Lifecycles
Microsoft’s unwavering support for BC is indefinite. It relieves you of any concerns about future budgeting for ERP software upgrades.

End of Support for Dynamics GP (Great Plains) 2013, GP 2013 R2

Listing	Start Date	Mainstream End Date	Extended End Date
Dynamics GP 2013	Mar 12, 2013	Apr 10, 2018	Apr 11, 2023
Dynamics GP 2013 R2	Aug 21, 2014	Apr 10, 2018	Apr 11, 2023

Microsoft announced the end of extended support for Dynamics GP 2013 and GP 2013 R2 on April 11th, 2023.

However, those on GP versions 2015 through GP 2018 R2 are not in jeopardy because they are still covered under extended support.

Ongoing support for Dynamics GP

You are already under the Modern Lifecycle Policy if you are on GP versions like 18.2, 18.3, 18.4, or 18.5. Here’s what this means for you:

Ongoing support and updates
With the Modern Lifecycle Policy, you can expect continuous fixes, feature updates, and tax updates for your Dynamics GP.
More frequent updates
Instead of waiting long periods, you will receive updates three times a year. This keeps your system up-to-date with the latest enhancements.
Seamless upgrades
Forget about major version upgrades. The new approach eliminates the concept of version years and simplifies upgrades.
Reduced maintenance efforts
You only need to apply one update annually to stay current, which saves you time and effort.

Next steps for Dynamics GP (2013, GP 2013 R2) users

If you are using GP 2015 to 2018 versions, you have two options:

Receive ongoing extended support and stay on GP.
Migrate to Dynamics 365 Business Central

Whether you stay on Dynamics GP or switch to Dynamics 365 Business Central, certified experts at LevelShift help you navigate the complexities smoothly and make informed decisions according to your unique business requirements.

The Dynamics 365 Business Central QuickStart Package is a solution that can help you transition your business to D365 Business Central swiftly. Once you provide us with the necessary information, we will take charge of the setup and provide comprehensive training to ensure a seamless integration with Business Central.

With 100 hours dedicated to implementation and an additional 20 hours of training, our package is designed to get your business up and running swiftly. This saves valuable time and resources that can be used to enhance your business processes simultaneously.

For businesses seeking a prompt and professional move to the cloud, the Dynamics 365 Business Central QuickStart Package is the ideal choice. Let us handle the complexities while you leverage the full potential of Dynamics 365 Business Central.

How much does it cost to implement QuickStart Business Central?

The cost for configuration and setup of the QuickStart Dynamics 365 Business Central package begins at 47,680 USD. This all-inclusive package offers everything necessary to initiate your implementation seamlessly. Any additions to the standard package would incur additional costs.

Next steps for Dynamics NAV (2013; NAV 2013 R2) and AX 2012 R3 users

Now that mainstream support has ended for Dynamics NAV and AX users, the only option is to migrate to the cloud.

Microsoft partners play an integral role during migration to Dynamics 365 applications. Internal teams within organizations can help achieve the same goal. However, they typically take longer to complete and tax the in-house technical resources.

The Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations QuickStart Package is designed for enterprise-level organizations. It accelerates the implementation of Dynamics 365 F&O. It takes around five months, saving time compared to the typical 9-12 months. This is great for businesses that want a swift adoption of Dynamics 365 F&O. The package includes pre-configuration workshops, go-live assistance, ongoing support, and a fast and easy implementation process.

How much does it cost to implement QuickStart F&O?

It costs 250,000 USD for configuration and setup. The QuickStart Dynamics 365 F&O package has everything you need to start. Any additions to the standard package would incur additional costs.

Future-proof your business with LevelShift

LevelShift is a Microsoft Certified Solutions partner with highly trained professionals who devise perfect solutions for Dynamics 365 implementation, migration, customization, and support. Our on-demand services help you with the best solutions within a cost-efficient framework. You only pay for the time used.

Reach out to our experts to learn about migration to Dynamics 365.