Microsoft recently issued a reminder announcing that multiple versions of Visual Studio are coming to the end of support, covering Visual Studio 2017, 2019 (version 16.7) and 2019 Preview (Preview Channel) releases.
If you are still using an older version, now is also the time to pick up a suitable new version in preparation for software feature updates and security patches after April 2022.
After April 2022, older versions of Visual Studio will move into what’s called an “extended support period,” where customers who need it will be able to get support for security updates until April 2027.
Meanwhile, Visual Studio 2019 (version 16.7) is being completely abandoned, meaning users need to migrate to version 16.11, or Visual Studio 2022. Additionally, Visual Studio 2012 will end with support on January 9, 2023.
Microsoft explained: VS 2022 is its most efficient integrated development environment (IDE) ever, and recommends that all customers upgrade the experience immediately, especially old users of the community edition.
- Visual Studio offers three experience channels, including the Preview Channel, which provides a sneak peek at the latest feature improvements for early feedback.
- The Current Channel will provide these new features when they are generally ready, but users are advised to install all minor updates to maintain support.
- Lastly is the LTSC Long Term Support channel for the Enterprise, Professional and Build Tools editions.
- This gives development teams more control over versions/new features, and Microsoft provides quality and security fixes to the LTSC channel within 18 months of release.
As for the current latest Visual Studio 2022, its official support will continue until January 2032.