We wanted to share two important Microsoft changes that may affect your business over the coming months and help you prepare ahead of time.
Microsoft Publisher Will Be Retired in October 2026:
Microsoft has announced that Publisher will reach end of life on October 1, 2026 and will no longer be included with Microsoft 365. After that date, Microsoft 365 users will not be able to open or edit Publisher (.pub) files using Publisher. Microsoft recommends converting important Publisher documents before the retirement date.
What should you do now?
- Identify any Publisher files your organization still uses.
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Convert important files to PDF for long-term access.
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Rebuild documents that require future editing in newer applications.
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Archive older Publisher documents before support ends.
Possible alternatives to Publisher include:
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Microsoft Word – for newsletters, flyers, labels, and basic publications.
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Microsoft PowerPoint – for brochures, marketing materials, and visual layouts.
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Microsoft Designer – for AI-assisted graphic design and marketing content.
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Adobe InDesign – for advanced desktop publishing needs.
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Canva – for easy-to-use marketing and design projects.
Learn more:
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Microsoft Support: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/publisher/microsoft-publisher-will-no-longer-be-supported-after-october-2026
Microsoft Passkeys Becoming the Default Authentication Method:
Microsoft is also strengthening account security by moving organizations away from SMS text and voice-based authentication methods.
Starting September 1st, Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) started the process of making passkeys the default authentication experience for users who currently rely on SMS or voice verification.
Starting February 1, 2027, Microsoft will retire its native SMS and voice authentication services. Users whose only authentication method is SMS or voice may be required to register a passkey before they can continue signing in. Microsoft states there will be no opt-out from this requirement.
Why this matters:
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Passkeys provide stronger protection against phishing attacks.
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They eliminate the need for one-time SMS codes.
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Sign-in is often faster and more convenient using biometrics or a device PIN.
Learn more:
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Microsoft Learn: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/entra/identity/authentication/concept-sms-voice-retirement
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Microsoft Security Blog: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2026/07/13/microsoft-entra-id-security-updates-passkeys-are-the-default-authentication-method-in-entra-id/
How We Can Help:
If your organization still relies on Microsoft Publisher or uses SMS-based multifactor authentication, now is a good time to begin planning for these changes. Our team can help identify affected users, recommend replacement solutions, and develop a smooth transition plan before Microsoft’s deadlines arrive.
Please reach out if you’d like assistance evaluating your environment or preparing for either of these changes.
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