Microsoft Navision end of life – what you need to know

Microsoft Navision, now known as Dynamics NAV, reached its end of life following the release of Dynamics 365 Business Central. Mainstream support for the final version, NAV 2018, ended in January 2023, while extended support for security updates continues until January 2028. Businesses must migrate to the cloud or Business Central on-premises to maintain compliance and functionality.

Both small and large organizations need efficient ERP tools to manage everyday business operations, and given that ERP tools have been in use for many years, the version you're using might now be outdated.

Using outdated software tools poses several security risks, in addition to lacking modern features and capabilities. Microsoft Navison is an example of this, which many companies still use despite being phased out in the coming years.

In this article, we take a look at what Microsoft Navison is, which versions have become obsolete, and what you must do next.

For more information watch our webinar covering alternatives with NAV End of Life.

Considering alternatives with NAV End of Life?

Learn more about your options and ensure a smooth transition after NAV end of life.

• The implications of Microsoft ending support for NAV
• The different paths you can take, including sticking with NAV, upgrading to Business Central, or implementing a new ERP system
• The key features and benefits of Priority ERP, a powerful alternative to NAV

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What is Microsoft Navision called now?

Microsoft Navision is now officially called Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. The product was rebranded as Dynamics NAV in 2005 before its final transition to the Business Central name in 2018.

The cloud-based Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central was announced in 2018 and integrates the features of Dynamics NAV and Dynamics CRM, making it a more holistic solution for business owners. However, Microsoft has now announced that it would pull the plug on Dynamics NAV and has recommended its users to switch over to Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Is Navision being discontinued?

Microsoft Navision is being discontinued in phases, as the product has been rebranded and replaced by Dynamics 365 Business Central. While mainstream support for all legacy versions has already ended, specific versions like NAV 2016 reach total end-of-life on April 14, 2026.

The final version, NAV 2018, will cease to receive extended security updates in January 2028, after which the software is considered obsolete and non-compliant.

This means that if you currently use any of Dynamics NAV's older versions, you will no longer receive updates, security patches, or support. To have access to all the latest features and updates, you will have to migrate your existing data and processes to Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Will Navision have end-of-life support?

Navision will receive end-of-life support based on Microsoft's lifecycle policy. Mainstream support has ended for most versions, but extended support continues until specific deadlines.

With each passing year, extended support for previous versions of Dynamic NAV will end. Let's examine what this means for users.

Microsoft Navison end of lifecycle policy

Regular support for Microsoft Dynamics NAV ended in 2018, whereas all extended support will cease in 2028. This is in line with Microsoft's support policy, which follows a roadmap of team years per release. The first five years consist of regular and standard support, whereas the last five years consist of extended support.

Extended support status and timeline

During mainstream support, you receive all the support and updates that Microsoft makes available for its customers. This includes enhancements to existing features, improvements to UI/UX, and bug fixes. However, during extended support, which starts in 2023 and ends in 2028, you will only receive security updates.

Microsoft dynamics NAV support roadmap

If you are wondering when exactly support for your version of Microsoft Dynamics NAV will end, it depends on which version you use. Microsoft has a 10-year lifecycle roadmap, with the first five years giving you all available support and updates and the last five years restricted to security-related updates. Regardless of which version you use, since 2023, you will probably have received only the security updates. The question really is — when will that cease, too?

You can always continue to use outdated software products even after support ends. However, this comes with multiple risks that can affect how your business functions.

Risks of using dynamics NAV after extended support ends

Increased security vulnerabilities

According to a study conducted by BitSight, companies using outdated operating systems on their devices were three times likelier to become victims of a security breach. Security breaches can put your business at a standstill or, worse, lead to expensive lawsuits. These include malware, data breaches, ransomware, and identity theft. A modern ERP with a centralized data server that is updated in real time ensures you remain safe from different security vulnerabilities.

Software malfunctions and performance issues

Outdated software programs tend to be slow and poor in performance and cannot help you scale. Your revenue suffers due to frequent computer crashes and system downtime. Employee productivity suffers too — staff will not be motivated to work on software tools that hinder their speed and productivity. A single ERP that malfunctions can have a cascading effect on other integrated software programs. As a result, you will experience an organization-wide drop in performance and productivity and poor employee satisfaction.

No new features

Dynamics NAV may have all your basic features, but technology is evolving rapidly. It lacks the ability to help employees work anywhere, anytime. It does not support artificial intelligence, nor does it have an intuitive user interface, which is essential for frontline workers. Modern ERP solutions offer multi-altered connectivity and a mobile-first approach, which allow your desk and frontline workers to perform at their best.

Compliance concerns

Studies show businesses find it difficult to comply with different rules and regulations, from saving energy to filing tax returns on time. Older ERP tools are clunky, require manual input, and make it difficult to comply with different rules automatically. Consequently, you may notice that you're not fulfilling all the compliance requirements in time. In addition, as end-of-life support for all the versions of Dynamics NAV ends, you will expose your organization to multiple security-related issues that result in non-compliance with various consumer data protection rules.

Planning your migration before extended support for NAV ends

It's crucial to use software products that receive regular support and updates. As mainstream support for Dynamics NAV already ended in 2023, it is essential that you start thinking about migrating to a newer and better ERP. Most importantly, all security updates will cease by 2028, too, even for the latest version of NAV, released in 2018.

What are the next steps?

Prepare your data: Begin cleansing and transforming your existing data for compatibility with a new ERP.
Consult an expert: An ERP consultant will guide you through selecting the best system for your business needs and help ensure a smooth migration process. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation call with an ERP implementation expert.

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The Author

Barry Spielman

Director of Product Marketing

Barry Spielman is a seasoned B2B marketing professional. A skilled public speaker and organizer, Barry has managed large teams and executed complex initiatives across PR, analyst relations, events, SEO, and advertising. With a track record of publishing content and achieving industry recognition, he is known for his excellent interpersonal skills and collaborative approach to achieving results.