Microsoft SharePoint 2013 End of Life
SharePoint 2013, a robust collaboration platform developed by Microsoft, has played a pivotal role in enhancing organizational efficiency and teamwork since its release. Launched as the successor to SharePoint 2010, this platform brought forth a myriad of features and improvements, catering to the evolving needs of businesses for seamless content management, collaboration, and communication.
Released in 2012, SharePoint 2013 has been a cornerstone for businesses seeking a centralized system to manage documents, workflows, and intranet resources. Its user-friendly interface, coupled with advanced functionalities, made it a go-to solution for enterprises worldwide. From document libraries and version control to social collaboration tools, SharePoint 2013 has been instrumental in fostering a collaborative work environment.
As technology continually advances, software inevitably reaches the end of its life cycle, and SharePoint 2013 is no exception. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key aspects of SharePoint designer 2013 end of life, what it means for businesses relying on this platform, and crucial considerations for a smooth transition to newer solutions.
When is SharePoint 2013 end of life?
Microsoft has officially designated April 11, 2023, as the definitive end-of-life date for SharePoint 2013 Extended Support, covering both SharePoint Server 2013 and SharePoint Foundation 2013. As this deadline has passed, organizations relying on these platforms must be vigilant about the implications and take strategic steps to navigate this transition effectively.
| Listing | Start Date | Mainstream End Date | Extended End Date |
| SharePoint Server 2013 | Jan 9, 2013 | Apr 10, 2018 | Apr 11, 2023 |
The end of mainstream support for SharePoint 2013 occurred on April 10, 2018. From this point onward, Microsoft ceased providing non-security updates, design changes, and feature requests for the platform.
Until this point, organizations have had the opportunity to receive security updates and patches, albeit without the addition of new features or design changes. As of April 11, 2023, Microsoft has ceased all support for SharePoint 2013, leaving it without the critical updates necessary to safeguard against emerging security threats.
The Impact of SharePoint 2013 End of Life on Your Organization
As the SharePoint 2013 end-of-support date has passed, organizations need to assess and understand how this transition will affect their operations, security, and overall efficiency. The consequences of continuing to use SharePoint 2013 beyond its end of life can be significant, ranging from security vulnerabilities to compliance issues. Let’s explore the potential impacts on your organization:
Security Risks
No Security Updates: One of the primary concerns is the absence of security updates after the end-of-life date. This leaves your organization vulnerable to emerging threats and exploits, as Microsoft will no longer release patches to address new security issues.
Compliance Challenges
Regulatory Compliance: Depending on your industry, regulatory requirements may mandate the use of supported software. Continuing to run SharePoint 2013 beyond its end of life could result in non-compliance, potentially leading to legal and financial consequences.
Performance and Compatibility
Outdated Technology: Over time, technology evolves, and unsupported software may struggle to integrate with newer applications and systems. This can lead to performance issues and hinder your organization’s ability to adopt the latest technologies.
Lack of Technical Support
No Assistance from Microsoft: Beyond the SharePoint 2013 workflow end-of-life date, Microsoft is no longer providing technical support for SharePoint 2013. This means that if your organization encounters issues or requires assistance, there will be no official channels to seek help.
Missed Innovation Opportunities
New Features and Functionality: Using an outdated platform means missing out on the latest features and functionalities that come with newer versions of SharePoint or alternative collaboration platforms. Embracing modern solutions can enhance productivity and streamline workflows.
Data Security and Integrity
Data Vulnerability: Unsupported software may expose your data to risks, including data loss or corruption. A secure and supported platform is crucial for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of your organization’s information.
What Your Organization Should Do?
As SharePoint 2013 approached its end of life, it’s crucial for your organization to take proactive steps to ensure a smooth and secure transition. Here are key recommendations to guide you through this process:
Conduct a Comprehensive Assessment
Begin by conducting a thorough assessment of your current SharePoint 2013 environment. Identify the extent of its usage, including document libraries, workflows, and customizations. This assessment will serve as the foundation for your transition plan.
Identify Dependencies and Customizations
Pinpoint any dependencies on SharePoint 2013, including third-party integrations and customizations. Assess how these elements will be affected by the transition and develop strategies to address potential challenges.
Evaluate Upgrade Options
Explore upgrade options based on your organization’s needs and priorities. This may involve upgrading to a newer version of SharePoint, migrating to Microsoft 365, or considering alternative collaboration platforms. Evaluate the features, costs, and compatibility of each option.
Develop a Migration Plan
Formulate a detailed migration plan that outlines the steps, timeline, and responsibilities involved in transitioning from SharePoint 2013 to the chosen platform. Consider conducting pilot migrations to test the process and identify any potential issues.
Communicate Transparently
Keep all stakeholders informed about the upcoming transition. Transparent communication is essential for managing expectations and gaining support from employees. Clearly articulate the reasons for the transition, the benefits of the new platform, and the timeline for implementation.
Provide Training and Support
Offer training sessions to employees to familiarize them with the new platform. Ensure that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to efficiently use the new collaboration tools. Additionally, establish a support system to address any concerns or questions during the transition.
Backup and Preserve Data
Prioritize data integrity by creating comprehensive backups of critical data before initiating the migration. This precautionary measure ensures that no valuable information is lost during the transition process.
Consider Compliance and Security
If your organization operates in a regulated industry, ensure that the chosen platform complies with industry-specific regulations. Implement robust security measures to safeguard sensitive data throughout the transition and beyond.
Test and Iterate
Before fully committing to the new platform, conduct thorough testing to identify and address any unforeseen issues. Iterate on the migration plan based on feedback and testing results to enhance the overall success of the transition.
Seek Professional Assistance
If the transition involves complexities or unique challenges, consider seeking assistance from professional consultants or Microsoft-certified experts. Their expertise can streamline the process and mitigate potential risks.
Exploring Upgrade Options from SharePoint 2013
As you prepare for SharePoint 2013 Migration, several upgrade options are available, each offering distinct features and benefits. Choosing the right path depends on your organization’s specific needs, goals, and existing infrastructure. Here are some key options to consider:
Upgrade to SharePoint Server 2016 or 2019
Consider upgrading to a more recent version of SharePoint Server, such as SharePoint Server 2016 or SharePoint Server 2019. This option allows you to maintain an on-premises deployment while benefiting from the latest features, improvements, and security updates provided by the newer versions.
Migrate SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online (Microsoft 365)
Embrace the cloud by migrating to SharePoint Online, part of the Microsoft 365 suite. This option offers a scalable, cloud-based solution with features like seamless collaboration, document storage, and integration with other Microsoft 365 apps. Migrating to the cloud can enhance flexibility, accessibility, and overall collaboration within your organization.
Explore Microsoft 365 Collaboration Tools
Beyond SharePoint, Microsoft 365 provides a suite of collaboration tools, including Microsoft Teams, OneDrive for Business, and Yammer. Depending on your organization’s needs, you may choose to focus on these specialized tools to address specific collaboration requirements. Microsoft Teams, for example, offers a robust platform for communication and teamwork.
Consider Hybrid Deployment
If your organization prefers a gradual transition, a hybrid deployment might be the right fit. This involves maintaining some SharePoint resources on-premises while gradually transitioning others to the cloud. A hybrid approach allows for a phased migration, enabling your organization to adapt to the cloud at its own pace.
Evaluate Third-Party Solutions
Explore third-party migration tools and solutions that can streamline the upgrade process. Some tools offer automated migration capabilities, helping to reduce the complexity and time associated with manual migrations. Ensure that any third-party solutions align with your organization’s security and compliance requirements.
Assess Alternative Collaboration Platforms
Take the opportunity to assess alternative collaboration platforms that may better align with your organization’s evolving needs. Platforms such as Atlassian Confluence, Slack, or even customized solutions based on your specific requirements could be viable alternatives.
Customized SharePoint Solutions
Depending on your organization’s unique needs, consider a customized SharePoint solution. This may involve developing custom features, workflows, or integrations to tailor the platform to your specific requirements. Work closely with SharePoint developers or consult with Microsoft-certified professionals for this option.
Factors to Consider While Migrating from SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online
Migrating from SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. Here are key aspects to keep in mind for a successful migration:
Data Assessment and Cleanup
Before migration, assess the content in your SharePoint 2013 environment. Identify unused or outdated data and consider cleaning up or archiving content that is no longer necessary. This not only reduces the volume of data to be migrated but also ensures a more streamlined and organized migration process.
Migration Strategy
Choose an appropriate migration strategy based on your organization’s needs. Common strategies include a lift-and-shift approach (bulk migration), a phased migration (migrating in stages), or a hybrid approach (combining on-premises and online environments temporarily). The chosen strategy should align with your organization’s goals and minimize downtime.
Customizations and Workflows
Assess the customizations and workflows present in your SharePoint 2013 environment. SharePoint Online has its own set of capabilities and limitations, and certain custom solutions may need to be adjusted or replaced. Evaluate third-party tools or seek developer support if customizations are integral to your business processes.
Backup and Rollback Plan
Implement a comprehensive backup plan before initiating the migration. This includes backing up data from the SharePoint 2013 environment and having a well-defined rollback plan in case any issues arise during or after migration.
Post-Migration Support
Be prepared to provide support and assistance to users after the migration. Establish a support system to address questions, issues, and feedback. Monitoring the post-migration environment is crucial for identifying and resolving any unforeseen challenges.
By addressing these factors in your migration plan, your organization can navigate the transition from SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online more effectively, ensuring a successful and optimized deployment in the cloud.
Real-time Case Study on SharePoint 2013 Migration
Large Data Analytics Company Successfully Migrates to SharePoint Online
A large data analytics company was looking for a way to modernize its intranet portal and improve collaboration and document management for its employees. They decided to migrate from SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online.
The company engaged a SharePoint migration partner to help them with the process. The partner worked with the company to develop a migration plan that met their specific needs. The plan included steps for assessing the company’s current SharePoint environment, identifying and addressing any migration risks, and migrating the company’s data and content to SharePoint Online.
The migration was completed successfully and on time. The company is now able to enjoy the benefits of SharePoint Online, including:
- A modern and user-friendly intranet portal
- Improved collaboration features
- Enhanced document management capabilities
- Reduced IT costs
Get Expert Assistance with Your SharePoint Migration – Introducing Katpro Technologies
Embarking on a SharePoint migration journey? Katpro Technologies is your trusted partner for a seamless and efficient SharePoint 2013 Migration to SharePoint Online. Our SharePoint migration services are tailored to meet the unique needs of your organization, ensuring a smooth migration process with minimal disruptions.
Why Choose Katpro Technologies for Your SharePoint Migration:
Expertise and Experience
With years of experience in SharePoint solutions, Katpro Technologies boasts a team of seasoned experts. Our professionals have successfully executed numerous migration projects, bringing a wealth of knowledge and best practices to ensure your migration is in capable hands.
Comprehensive Migration Strategies
We offer a range of migration strategies tailored to your organization’s requirements. Whether you prefer a lift-and-shift approach, a phased migration, or a hybrid solution, Katpro Technologies has the expertise to design and implement the right strategy for your unique business needs.
Customization and Development Support
If your SharePoint 2013 environment includes customizations or workflows, our skilled developers can assist in adapting these elements for SharePoint Online. We understand the intricacies of SharePoint’s capabilities and limitations, ensuring a seamless transition for your custom solutions.
Thorough Testing and Validation
Katpro Technologies places a strong emphasis on meticulous testing in a staging environment. Our thorough testing processes identify and rectify potential issues before migration, ensuring that your data, permissions, and configurations remain intact during and after the migration.
Partner with Katpro Technologies for your SharePoint migration and experience a seamless, secure, and optimized transition to SharePoint Online. Contact us today to discuss your specific migration needs and embark on a journey towards a modern and collaborative SharePoint environment.
Additional Resource
Are you facing the challenges of migrating from SharePoint 2013 to a more modern solution? We recognize the complexities involved, which is why we’ve crafted a valuable resource to support your journey.
Choosing the Right SharePoint Migration Strategy: Migrate from SharePoint 2013
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into essential aspects to empower your decision-making process and ensure a successful migration:
We will cover:
- Key considerations for choosing the right migration strategy.
- Why Migrating from SharePoint 2013 is a Need?
- Step-by-step guidance for SharePoint 2013 to SharePoint Online migration.
- Best practices for a seamless transition.
Grab your guide to choosing the perfect SharePoint migration strategy now.
