Microsoft Sells Time on Legacy Exchange, Skype Servers

Microsoft is extending support for legacy versions of Exchange Server and Skype for Business Server, as organizations continue to lag behind in migration efforts. In a move that underscores its strategy, Microsoft sells time to these customers by offering paid security updates—though some question whether these updates provide tangible value.

The company has acknowledged that enough enterprises are still running outdated systems to justify extending paid security patch programs. Microsoft sells time again through its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which aims to keep older servers protected while customers transition to newer platforms.

However, the added support won’t come cheap. Organizations must pay for the updates, and critics argue the cost may not yield meaningful benefits, especially if migration delays persist. Still, for IT teams facing complex transitions, the option offers a temporary safety net.

To explore full details of Microsoft’s extended update plans, read the complete article at
https://www.theregister.com/2025/07/17/microsoft_extended_security_exchange_skype_server/