When you keep your software up-to-date you benefit from continued support and servicing, including security upgrades, bug patches, new features and regulatory compliance updates.
Microsoft’s Modern Lifecycle Policy
The Modern Lifecycle Policy applies to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central 2019 15+, with the planned updates detailed below:
The Modern Lifecycle Policy covers products and services that are services and supported continuously. If you have an active BREP Support plan or pay by subscription, you’ll have access to the latest updates available.
Points to consider before upgrading
You don’t need to update every 12 months. For example, If you have Business Central version 15 Wave 2 unless version 16 Wave 1 has a feature you are waiting on – then you may want to hold off and work with your Support partner to determine what’s best for your business.
Fixed Lifecycle Policy – Business Central v14
Dynamics 365 Business Central versions 14x (April 2019) and before followed the Fixed Lifecycle Policy.
The Fixed Lifecycle Policy was designed to take the guesswork out of determining the length of time Microsoft provides support and servicing for a product.
In most situations, Microsoft provides 5 years of Mainstream Support. If you are currently using Dynamics 365 Business Central on-premises V14 you will have access to the Mainstream Support until October 2023.
The Fixed Lifecycle Policy worked well for previous installations of Dynamics NAV and Business Central, as solutions were often purchased perpetually, and organisations would use the same version for several years.
Fixed Lifecycle Policy – Dynamics NAV
Dynamics NAV follows the Fixed Lifecycle Policy. Many versions are now no longer covered by mainstream or extended support.
The table below outlines the NAV Mainstream Support end dates:
|
NAV version |
Lifecycle Start Date |
Mainstream Support End Date |
|
NAV 2018 |
12/1/17 |
1/10/23 |
|
NAV 2017 |
10/27/16 |
1/11/22 |
|
NAV 2015 |
12/17/14 |
1/14/20 |
|
NAV 2013 R2 |
12/30/13 |
1/9/18 |
|
NAV 2013 |
12/19/12 |
1/9/18 |
|
NAV 2009 R2 |
13/15/11 |
1/13/15 |
|
NAV 2009 SP1 |
8/28/09 |
1/13/15 |
Benefits of upgrading Business Central or Dynamics NAV
Sooner or later mainstream support will stop for the older version of Business Central v14 or Dynamics Navision. Using v15 or above means you will have access to ongoing updates.
If you have heavily customised NAV, then some of the new Business Central add-ins available from AppSource, or your Support partner, may help improve efficiencies and reduce some operating costs.
The 2020 pandemic has led to the faster adoption of cloud software – meaning many businesses have now begun the upgrade journey to Business Central.
Get in touch with our experts today to discuss how we can support your upgrade journey. We’re here to help.