Discover the latest deprecated features and removed functionalities in SharePoint Server Subscription Edition to stay updated.
Introduction
Staying abreast of SharePoint updates is crucial for organizations leveraging this powerful collaboration platform. The SharePoint Server Subscription Edition introduces significant changes, including the deprecation and removal of various features. Understanding these updates ensures seamless transitions and maintains the efficiency of your SharePoint environment.
Deprecated Features in SharePoint Server Subscription Edition
Microsoft has announced the deprecation of several features in the latest SharePoint updates. Deprecated features remain supported for existing users but are not recommended for new implementations.
InfoPath Forms Services
InfoPath Forms Services is deprecated and will receive support until July 14, 2026. Users are encouraged to transition to Power Apps for form creation and management, offering enhanced functionality and integration capabilities.
Microsoft Workflow Manager
With the deprecation of Microsoft Workflow Manager, SharePoint 2013 workflows should migrate to SharePoint Workflow Manager or consider Power Automate for advanced workflow automation. Future developments will focus on these alternatives to ensure robust workflow solutions.
SharePoint 2010 Workflows
SharePoint 2010 workflows are no longer recommended and will be unsupported post-July 2026. Upgrading to SharePoint 2013 workflows or adopting Power Automate is advised to maintain workflow integrity and leverage modern automation features.
SharePoint Designer 2013
While SharePoint Designer 2013 remains supported until July 2026, its use is discouraged for new projects. Transitioning to Visual Studio or other modern development tools is recommended for creating and editing workflows.
Internet Explorer 11
Support for Internet Explorer 11 is limited to the SharePoint Central Administration site. Users should switch to Microsoft Edge for accessing team sites, OneDrive personal sites, and other SharePoint content areas to ensure compatibility and security.
Basic Authentication
Basic authentication is deprecated due to security vulnerabilities. Administrators should adopt Trusted Identity Provider methods to enhance authentication security and comply with best practices.
Removed Features in SharePoint Server Subscription Edition
In addition to deprecations, several features have been completely removed from the latest SharePoint updates, requiring immediate attention from administrators and users.
Access Services 2010 and 2013
Both Access Services 2010 and Access Services 2013 have been removed. Users are encouraged to utilize Power Apps and Power Automate as modern alternatives for building and managing data-driven applications.
Classic Authentication Mode for Content Web Applications
The classic authentication mode has been eliminated for content web applications, now solely supporting claims authentication. Administrators must ensure that all content web applications are configured accordingly to maintain access and functionality.
Groove Sync App Support
Support for the Groove sync app has been removed. Transitioning to the OneDrive sync app is recommended to continue syncing files and maintaining collaboration across teams.
Lists Web Service APIs for Groove Sync App
The Lists web service APIs previously used by the Groove sync app are no longer supported. Migrating to the OneDrive sync app ensures continued access to list services and synchronization features.
PerformancePoint Services
PerformancePoint Services has been removed due to its dependency on the obsolete Microsoft Silverlight. Users should adopt Power BI for business intelligence and data visualization needs, benefiting from its advanced analytics capabilities.
Stsadm.exe Command-Line Tool
The stsadm.exe tool has been deprecated in favor of SharePoint PowerShell cmdlets. Administrators should transition to PowerShell for command-line management and scripting to take advantage of the newer, more versatile administration tools.
Update-SPHelp PowerShell Cmdlet
With the introduction of PowerShell modules in SharePoint Server Subscription Edition, the Update-SPHelp cmdlet is obsolete. The Update-Help cmdlet now serves to download the latest help content for SharePoint PowerShell cmdlets, simplifying the update process.
Claims to Windows Token Service (C2WTS)
The Claims to Windows Token Service (C2WTS) has been removed, necessitating adjustments for any custom solutions relying on it. Migrating to Windows Identity Foundation (WIF) 4.5 ensures continued authentication services without the deprecated C2WTS.
Legacy Cloud Hybrid Search
The Legacy Cloud Hybrid Search component will be retired on June 30, 2025. Upgrading to SharePoint Server Subscription Edition Version 25H1 or later is essential to maintain search capabilities that integrate on-premises and Microsoft 365 content.
Implications of These Changes
The deprecation and removal of features in the latest SharePoint updates signify Microsoft’s shift towards modern, secure, and more efficient tools and services. Organizations must proactively adapt to these changes to avoid disruptions, enhance security, and leverage new functionalities that improve collaboration and productivity.
Recommendations for Transition
- Assess Current Usage: Identify which deprecated or removed features are currently in use within your SharePoint environment.
- Plan Migration Paths: Develop a strategic plan to transition from deprecated features to recommended alternatives such as Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI.
- Update Security Practices: Replace deprecated authentication methods with more secure options like Trusted Identity Providers.
- Train Teams: Ensure that your IT staff and end-users are trained on the new tools and workflows to facilitate a smooth transition.
- Monitor Updates: Stay informed about future SharePoint updates and roadmap changes to continuously align your SharePoint environment with best practices.
Conclusion
Staying updated with the latest SharePoint updates is vital for maintaining a secure, efficient, and productive collaboration environment. By understanding and adapting to the deprecated and removed features in the SharePoint Server Subscription Edition, organizations can ensure a seamless transition and continue to leverage SharePoint’s robust capabilities effectively.
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