Why upgrade to Exchange Server 2019?

The new version of Exchange Server was, according to earlier statements by the company, supposed to be a new version of Exchange Server vNext/Subscription Edition. The next version was to include support, product updates and security updates. Unfortunately, 2021 brought major changes for Exchange Server. In March, there was a large-scale hacking attack by the HAFINIIUM group that targeted Microsoft's on-premise Exchange server solution.

Microsoft decided to react immediately to protect its customers. It released extensive security updates throughout the year:

Exchange Emergency Mitigation Service (EEMS)
AMSI integration in the June 2021 Cumulative Update (CU)
Hybrid Management PowerShell module working with MFA administrator accounts

Updating the plan

The next version of Exchange Server will be released, according to Microsoft's current roadmap, in the second half of 2025. As a new license, it will only be available for purchase with Software Assurance and will require both server and CAL licenses. Further details on pricing, features, hardware requirements or naming will be provided by Microsoft in the first half of 2024.

Microsoft promises that in the next release there will be an in-place upgrade option from Exchange Server 2019, which means that you probably won't need to buy new hardware or move mailboxes. This will make upgrading to the next version much easier than in previous years.

Microsoft Recommendations

Microsoft recommends that all its customers migrate to Exchange Server 2019 as soon as possible.

According to Microsoft, ExchangeServer 2016 or earlier versions no longer provide sufficient protection against hacker attacks. In addition, Exchange Server2019 includes features not available in previous versions. These include improved security, better performance and scalability, integration with SharePointServer and OneDrive, and a new and improved Outlook on the web. Microsoft plans to add additional management and security features to the latest available version.

What are the options for Exchange Server 2019?

Given the current threats faced by government institutions and commercial organisations during the economic crisis, it is challenging to keep IT infrastructure up-to-date and secure. We bring you three pricing models that represent different options to migrate to the current latest version in view of the planned changes that will take place in the second half of 2025.

Since there will be no release other than 2025, it can be assumed that Microsoft will extend support for the 2019 version for a longer period than the currently announced date (10/2025). The software will continue to run and receive security updates and will not need to immediately switch to the 2025 version.

Pricing models assume 300 access licenses for users in the organization. Licenses for the next expected version of Exchange Server in 2025 are calculated with a 20% price increase over Exchange Server 2019.

1. Exchange Server 2019 Secondary Licenses

The cheapest option for purchasing Exchange Server is to purchase secondary licenses in version 2019, including access licenses. In 2025, a complete renewal of the Exchange solution is required by purchasing new licenses including Software Assurance. In this model, the highest saving is the purchase of licenses from the open market, which can result in significant savings in favour of purchasing Exchange Server in 2025.

2. New Exchange Server 2019 licenses with Software Assurance

The second model accounts for higher costs today, which can save money in 2025. Currently, there is an option to purchase Exchange Server 2019 and access licenses including SA. In the second half of 2025, only Software Assurance needs to be purchased. Please note that the price of Software Assurance is approximately 25% of the price of a full license for each year of use.

3. New Exchange Server 2019 and 2025 licenses without SA

The last and most costly model calculates with new licenses for Exchange Server 2019. You need to purchase a new license for Exchange Server 2019 Standard including access licenses without SA and then in 2025 a complete renewal of the Exchange solution by purchasing new licenses including SA.

The cost comparison for all three models is shown in the chart below. The first model, which calculates with secondary licences, represents the largest saving not only in terms of input costs but also overall over both periods.