Microsoft has announced the end of support for all existing Exchange on-prem products. They announced also the launch of the Exchange SE. Exchange SE after October 14th, 2025, is the only supported version by Microsoft. You will find here how to migrate to Exchange SE with a complete visual guide.
Exchange SE Upgrade path:
Prerequisites
Exchange 2016 CU23 or Exchange 2019 CU14 & CU15 are the least required version to proceed. If you are on a different version, you will have to migrate/update to the ones mentioned above.
Exchange SE RTM is the recommended initial version for installation. If you use Exchange SE CU2 (or later) the coexistence with previous versions will stop working.
Key points:
- After October 14 2025 all previous exchange versions are out of support.
- The Exchange SE CU2 version blocks the coexistence with all previous versions.
- Exchange 2019 CU15 blocks coexistence with Exchange 2013.
- The new Exchange SE version needs a subscription to get support and updates.
Conclusion:
Exchange SE is a rebranding of the Exchange 2019. This is expected to change with the introduction of new security features soon with upcoming CUs. Microsoft switches the on-prem version in subscription based applications. This is an end of an era and might signal for changes in the Windows Server licensing in the future.
Hopefully the how to migrate to Exchange SE visual guide will help you get decisions for your next steps with your exchange server architecture. As subscription costs snowballing the last years I have written also an article on saving cost strategies for Azure give a check here.
For detailed instructions on the migration path, check the infographic I created above or visit this official Exchange Team’s article from Microsoft.
Need a fixed-price Exchange SE migration?
If you are not sure which Exchange SE upgrade path is safe for your environment, we can review your current Exchange version, certificates, namespaces, mail flow, hybrid setup, and migration risks.
We offer remote, fixed-price Exchange SE migration planning and implementation for businesses that want a clean upgrade without unnecessary downtime.
Get a Fixed-Price Exchange SE Migration Quote
FAQ
No you will have to have Exchange 2016 CU23 with coexistence with Exchange SE in order to migrate all the data to SE version.
Check the infographic above that I have the full details for all the existing scenarios.
No if there is no Exchange in your environment you install directly Exchange SE version.
 | About Alexios Pappas – Alexios Pappas has worked internally in IT Departments in multi-role technical and management positions for many years. In parallel, Alexios led IT multinational projects across several countries globally as an IT Freelancer. He repeatedly got Top Rated Plus distinction and also 100% satisfaction rate for over one and a half-decade, resulting from the Client’s feedback. Since 2015 he has been focused on informing and helping Businesses that want to improve and excel in their IT Section. |
