Preparing for End of Microsoft 365 Support on Remote Desktop Services

What’s changing with Microsoft 365 support?

Microsoft have made the decision to end support for Microsoft 365 apps running on Windows Remote Desktop Services (RDS) in October 2025. Windows RDS itself isn’t going away, and your 365 apps won’t suddenly stop working, but Microsoft will not assist with any technical support issues for 365 apps hosted on RDS from October 2025.

Whilst this may seem like a niche concern, it impacts most organisations using RDS for remote access – if you’re running a Windows RDS, it’s almost certain that you’re running Office applications on it, whether you know it or not.

Why are we highlighting this now when it’s a year away? Well, now is the best time to evaluate alternative solutions before support ends, and also consider your long-term plan. In this article, we’ll give you the ins-and-outs and some suggestions on how to proceed.

Why do businesses use RDS?

Businesses use RDS for a number of reasons. RDS provides centralised access to applications and desktops; they’re a relatively cost-effective method for remote access and control; and they guarantee efficient data processing and app performance by keeping resources close to the server, reducing latency.

There are different ways that RDS can be configured. The traditional form is setting up the RDS so that you access a full virtual desktop remotely. Another configuration is through app shortcuts, so some of your software like Excel or database tools aren’t installed locally on your machine, but when you open them, you are using them on the RDS. You can also setup an RDS to provide access via a browser portal.

A lot of line of business software is also run on RDS. The centralised infrastructure minimises lag, improves user experience, and avoids many local installations, saving setup and access time and prolonging the lifespan of your machines.

What are the risks of running an unsupported environment?

It is likely, but not guaranteed, that Microsoft will continue to supply updates to 365 apps run on RDS. However, if you have a problem Microsoft will no longer help with troubleshooting as running on that platform is no longer supported. It’s important to recognise this vulnerability and plan accordingly.

Not only are there potential security risks, but also the risk of disruption. Potential compatibility issues and a lack of technical support from Microsoft can disrupt your productivity, wreaking havoc to your work day.

There’s also the cost element. Managing a vulnerable infrastructure over a long-term can lead to increased costs and added complexity as you navigate and maintain an increasingly fragile service.

Microsoft's strategic shift: why they’re nudging businesses towards Azure

Microsoft’s push towards Azure aligns with the industry-wide move towards cloud-first strategies. By phasing out support for Microsoft 365 apps on RDS, they are encouraging businesses to transition to solutions like Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) or Windows 365 Cloud PC.

Key Azure Options for Businesses:

1. A robust, scalable solution for businesses needing enterprise-level functionality.
2. Offers excellent performance for complex workloads like SAP or specialised database applications.
3. Allows for centralised app management while reducing reliance on on-premise infrastructure.

1. An individually customisable solution designed for organisations with less complex needs.
2. Cloud PCs can be quite cheap or incredibly expensive, depending on the required spec of the machine.
3. Ideal if you employ temporary staff or contractors and security of your data is of special concern.

While AVD is the “natural successor” for many RDS users, businesses must evaluate their needs carefully. Transitioning to Azure is not just about following Microsoft’s lead – it’s about aligning your IT strategy with your long-term goals.

Evaluating your options: what comes next?

Whilst the October 2025 deadline may feel far away, it will come around quickly – now is the time to assess your IT environment and chart a course for the future. Here’s what to consider:

Assessing Your Current Setup:

• Identify dependencies: What apps are you currently running on your RDS? Are they all part of Microsoft 365, or do you have specialised software?
• Evaluate workloads: Do your workloads require low latency, high computing power, or centralised management?

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Cloud vs On-Premise Solutions:

On-Premise Servers:

• Pros: Your data is on your server, and your server may even be in your office. You have complete control.
• Cons: Takes up considerable physical space, setup and ongoing costs for maintenance and refreshing, extra costs such as electricity.

Cloud-Based Solutions:

• Pros: Scalability, generally reliable with fail-safes in place if anything goes wrong, and access to cutting-edge technology.
• Cons: Recurring costs, less direct control over your data, reliance on your provider to keep your data secure and accessible.

Long-term planning: where do you want to be in 3-5 years?

The end of support for 365 apps on RDS isn’t just a technical change; it’s an opportunity to rethink your IT strategy. Businesses should ask themselves:

• Why are we currently using RDS?
  • Is it to centralise resources, support remote work, or improve app performance?
• What’s the future of our IT environment?
  • Are you ready for a fully cloud-based setup, or do you foresee hybrid solutions that combine cloud and on-prem infrastructure?
• How will non-Microsoft software fit into the picture?
  • Line of business apps or bespoke software may require tailored solutions that aren’t fully addressed by Azure or Windows 365 Cloud PC.

Industry trends to consider:

• Hybrid environments: A mix of cloud and on-prem infrastructure remains a viable option for businesses with unique requirements or compliance needs.
• Global accessibility: If your workforce spans multiple countries, cloud solutions like AVD can offer seamless access without regional performance bottlenecks.

Key takeaways

• Evaluate your current IT environment and dependencies on RDS.
• Weigh the pros and cons of AVD, Windows 365 Cloud PC, and alternative solutions.
• Begin planning your transition strategy now to avoid security risks, downtime, and unexpected costs.

If you’re unsure about your next steps, The Final Step can help. Our experienced IT consultants can guide you through evaluating your options, planning your transition, and implementing a future-ready IT strategy tailored to your business needs.