Microsoft Dynamics GP End of Life: A Full Breakdown and FAQ

Microsoft recently made a significant announcement regarding the future of Dynamics GP—a trusted ERP system for small and mid-market businesses for decades. The official Microsoft Dynamics GP End of Life (EOL) date for updates and support is set for September 30, 2029. After this point, there will be no further product enhancements, regulatory updates, or technical support. However, minimal, critical security patches will continue until April 30, 2031.

This is big news for businesses that have relied on Dynamics GP for years, but there’s no need to panic. Dynamics GP remains a powerful and reliable solution for managing your operations. The key takeaway is that you now have plenty of time to explore your options, consider future-proofing your business, and make informed decisions when the time is right.

Check out our video talking about the Microsoft Dynamics GP End of Life announcement:

A Brief History of Dynamics GP

Dynamics GP was initially developed by Great Plains Software Inc. in Fargo, North Dakota, under the name “Great Plains.” Launched in the early 1980s, the software provided essential accounting functions such as general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and reporting tools. Over time, it grew to become a full ERP system that also offered project management, manufacturing, and supply chain management features.

In 2000, Microsoft acquired Great Plains Software for $1.1 billion, rebranding the software as Microsoft GP before eventually renaming it Microsoft Dynamics GP. Despite these changes, many users still affectionately refer to the software as “Great Plains.”

Through the years, Dynamics GP has evolved, offering cloud hosting options and mobile access, all while retaining its position as a trusted ERP solution for countless businesses. However, as technology advanced and cloud-based ERP systems like Dynamics 365 Business Central emerged, Microsoft began shifting its focus toward cloud-first solutions.

No Need to Panic about Dynamics GP End of Life —Dynamics GP is Still a Great Product

It’s important to note that despite this Microsoft Dynamics GP End of Life announcement, Dynamics GP continues to be an effective and reliable ERP system. This news isn’t about abandoning a product that works—it’s about understanding the options available to you moving forward. The system you’ve trusted for years will continue to function, but this announcement provides an opportunity to start planning for the future. You have time to make the best decision for your business, and there’s no rush to immediately migrate to another solution.

Fixed Lifecycle Policy for Older Versions of Dynamics GP

Many users are currently running older versions of Dynamics GP, which are governed by Microsoft’s Fixed Lifecycle Policy. This policy provides mainstream support for 5 years and extended support for 10 years, ensuring businesses using these versions don’t need to upgrade every year.

Here’s a breakdown of the support timelines for older versions of Dynamics GP under the Fixed Lifecycle Policy:

If you’re using Dynamics GP 2018 or earlier versions, it’s important to note that newer updates will automatically move your system to the Modern Lifecycle Policy, which provides continuous updates. Older versions, however, will follow the end-of-support timelines above, with no new updates or enhancements after these dates.

Modern Lifecycle Policy for Dynamics GP

For businesses running Dynamics GP version 18.x or later, the system is governed by Microsoft’s Modern Lifecycle Policy. This policy offers continuous support, including bug fixes, regulatory tax updates, and other essential updates that help businesses stay compliant and secure.

Under the Modern Lifecycle Policy, Microsoft commits to releasing three all-inclusive updates every year—typically in June, October, and December. These updates include:

Hotfixes for critical issues
Regulatory tax updates
Usability enhancements based on customer feedback

Here’s a general schedule for these updates:

Microsoft has stated that these updates will continue through September 30, 2029, with critical security patches extending to April 30, 2031.

What Are Your Options After the Dynamics GP End of Life?

As the Microsoft Dynamics GP End of Life approaches, businesses using GP have several paths they can consider. The good news is that you don’t need to make any immediate changes, but it’s crucial to start considering your options to ensure your business stays on track.

Staying on Dynamics GP

For businesses that are comfortable with their current GP setup, staying on GP is a viable option, at least for the short term. You can continue using GP without worrying about immediate disruption, but as the EOL date approaches, you may want to explore options to optimize your current system.

Additionally, hosting GP on Microsoft Azure can help extend its life while providing enhanced security and performance. This option allows businesses to keep using GP while benefiting from the advantages of cloud hosting.

Migrating to Dynamics 365 Business Central

For many, migrating to Dynamics 365 Business Central is the natural next step. Business Central offers all the robust ERP features of GP, plus the added benefits of advanced AI tools, cloud-based access, and seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and other modern applications.

Microsoft is currently offering migration incentives for GP users, making it easier and more cost-effective to make the switch. This pathway is ideal for businesses looking to future-proof their operations with the latest ERP technology.

Considering Other ERP Solutions

If your business is ready to explore other options, you may want to consider alternative ERP systems. Each business has unique needs, and while Dynamics 365 Business Central is a popular choice, there are other solutions that may better align with your specific requirements.

Planning for the Future: Take the Next Step with ClearPath

Deciding on the best path forward after the Microsoft Dynamics GP End of Life can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our ClearPath Consultation is designed to help you explore your options and make informed decisions about your ERP future. Whether you plan to stay on GP, host it in Azure, or migrate to a new ERP system, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Learn more about ClearPath and schedule your free consultation here.

Microsoft Dynamics GP End of Life Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does “end of life” for Microsoft Dynamics GP mean?
The end of life (EOL) for Microsoft Dynamics GP means that Microsoft will no longer provide support, enhancements, or updates of any kind for the product. Support will end in September 2029. Critical security updates will continue through April 2031, but will be minimal.
Will I still be able to use Dynamics GP after 2029?
Yes, you will still be able to use Dynamics GP after 2029, but without support from Microsoft. This means no new updates, technical support from Microsoft, and minimal security updates, limited only to critical issues, until 2031 which could leave your system vulnerable to security risks and operational inefficiencies.
Why is Microsoft discontinuing support for Dynamics GP?
Microsoft is focusing its ERP strategy on cloud-based solutions like Dynamics 365 Business Central. While Dynamics GP has served businesses for many years, it was built on older architecture that doesn’t integrate well with modern cloud-based solutions. Microsoft sees cloud ERP as the future, offering scalability, flexibility, and better long-term security.
What are the risks of staying on Dynamics GP after the End of Life date?
After 2029, Dynamics GP will receive very few security updates and by 2031 none at all, leaving your business vulnerable to cyberattacks, data breaches, and compliance issues. Additionally, as more software vendors shift to cloud solutions, your system may become increasingly difficult to integrate with newer technologies, affecting overall business efficiency.
How should I start planning for this transition?
The first step is to start budgeting for a migration in 2025 or 2026, as it can be a lengthy process. Velosio’s ClearPath Consultation Program is available to help you assess your needs, understand your options, and guide you in creating a customized migration plan that fits your timeline, budget, and business goals.
What is the ClearPath Consultation Program?
The ClearPath Consultation Program is designed to help businesses navigate the uncertainties of transitioning from Dynamics GP. Whether you’re ready to move now, looking to stay on GP, or still exploring your options, our specialists will work with you one-on-one to answer your questions, clear up any misconceptions, and guide you toward the best solution for your business.