With Microsoft’s upcoming release of the Exchange Server Subscription Edition (SE) in Q3 2025, now is the time to prepare your organization for this significant transition. The new version will come with changes to the upgrade and licensing process, which could impact your IT infrastructure. At Rocketta.de, we understand how critical your email systems are, and we’re here to help you navigate these changes smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of what the Exchange Server SE version offers, the implications for your current system, and why a timely upgrade to Exchange Server 2019 could be the key to ensuring a seamless transition.
What Does the Exchange Server SE Bring to the Table?
The Exchange Server Subscription Edition (SE) will introduce regular Cumulative Updates (CUs) twice a year, delivering security enhancements and new features. This continuous update cycle ensures your infrastructure remains secure and efficient without needing constant manual interventions.
The SE version is part of Microsoft’s broader push towards subscription-based services, and the changes in licensing reflect this shift. It also marks a critical step in Microsoft’s long-term strategy for Exchange Server, aligning with similar moves like SharePoint SE.
But how does this impact your organization? Rocketta.de is here to break it down and provide you with the clarity you need to act.
Why It’s Time to Upgrade to Exchange Server SE 2019
If your organization is still running on Exchange Server 2016, it’s important to note that SE will not support direct upgrades from this version. Instead, you’ll need to migrate first to Exchange Server 2019, and from there, you can upgrade to SE using the more efficient In-Place Upgrade method.
Here’s why upgrading to Exchange Server SE 2019 now makes sense:
- End of Support Deadlines: Support for Exchange Server 2016 and 2019 ends on October 14, 2025. By upgrading to Exchange Server 2019 before this date, you ensure that your infrastructure is up to date, with no risk of security vulnerabilities or performance issues from unsupported software.
- Ease of Transition: Upgrading to Exchange Server 2019 now simplifies the eventual transition to SE. The In-Place Upgrade feature allows you to upgrade directly on your current server infrastructure, minimizing downtime and the complexities associated with full migrations.
- Avoiding Mail Flow Issues: After the support for Exchange 2016 and 2019 ends, Microsoft has indicated that hybrid environments may face mail flow restrictions. By upgrading to Exchange Server 2019, you can ensure uninterrupted email services and avoid potential throttling or blocking of mail flow between your on-premises servers and Exchange Online.
- Cost Efficiency: Planning for these upgrades now, rather than waiting until the last moment, helps distribute the costs and workloads. By tackling the Exchange 2019 upgrade now, you spread out the necessary investments and avoid the expense of a rushed migration.
The Hybrid Server Advantage with SE
For organizations operating Hybrid Servers that link on-premises infrastructure with Exchange Online, there’s more good news. Hybrid Servers will continue to receive free licensing after the switch to SE, meaning you won’t incur additional costs in maintaining your hybrid setup. This ensures that businesses that aren’t ready to move fully to the cloud can still benefit from Microsoft’s latest offerings without breaking the bank.
Exchange Server SE: Subscription Model and Its Benefits
Microsoft’s shift to a subscription-based model for Exchange Server aligns with the growing demand for cloud services and flexible licensing. The SE version is built for organizations that need both the stability of on-premises servers and the adaptability of frequent updates and new features.
One of the biggest benefits of the SE version is the In-Place Upgrade from Exchange Server 2019. This method allows organizations to upgrade without the extensive downtime and resource demands of previous migrations. However, for organizations still on Exchange Server 2016, an Out-of-Place Upgrade (full migration) will be necessary.
At Rocketta.de, we understand the intricacies of these upgrades and are prepared to guide your organization through the process efficiently.
Steps to Prepare for Your Exchange Server SE Transition
Proper planning is crucial for a smooth transition to Exchange Server SE. Here’s a roadmap that Rocketta recommends:
- Assess Your Current Infrastructure: Begin by evaluating which version of Exchange your organization is currently using. If you’re running Exchange Server 2016 or older, start planning your migration path, which will likely involve a two-step process: upgrading to 2019 first, then moving to SE.
- Evaluate Hybrid Needs: If you’re operating in a hybrid environment, it’s essential to assess how SE will impact your configuration. While hybrid licenses will remain free, understanding the nuances of your setup will help ensure compatibility.
- Plan for Costs and Resources: While SE offers significant benefits in terms of updates and security, the transition will require resources — both in terms of time and budget. Planning now allows you to distribute the costs over time and avoid sudden financial strain.
- Partner with Experts: The transition to Exchange Server SE is a complex process, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Rocketta.de offers expert guidance, from assessment to implementation, ensuring your migration happens with minimal disruption.
How Rocketta.de Can Help Your Exchange Server SE Transition
At Rocketta.de, we specialize in Microsoft solutions and understand how critical it is to keep your email infrastructure running smoothly. Whether you need help assessing your current Exchange environment, planning for the upgrade, or executing the migration, we’re here to provide expert support tailored to your business needs.
We offer customized strategies for organizations of all sizes, ensuring that your transition to Exchange Server SE is seamless and stress-free. Our experienced team will help you identify potential roadblocks, create a step-by-step plan, and execute the migration with minimal impact on your daily operations.
Future-Proof Your Email Infrastructure with Rocketta.de and Microsoft Exchange Server SE
The transition to Exchange Server SE is a critical step in future-proofing your organization’s email infrastructure. By upgrading to Exchange Server 2019 now, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother, more efficient transition to SE, ensuring that your email systems remain secure, stable, and efficient for years to come.
Don’t wait until it’s too late — start planning today! Contact Rocketta.de for expert guidance on how to prepare your infrastructure for the future of Exchange.
