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11.04.23

If you are running Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 R3, you will no doubt be aware that the product is at the end of its life cycle. Therefore, mainstream support from Microsoft has come to an end.

The end of mainstream support means there are no more security updates, design changes, feature requests and various other fixes which may be needed.

How will Dynamics AX 2012 R3 end of life affect current users?

As per Microsoft's lifecycle policy, the end of support means that Microsoft no longer supports your AX installation. Mainstream support ended on 12 October 2021, and extended support ended on 10 January 2023. 

What are your options now?

1. Stay on AX

If your business is still running well on Dynamics AX 2012 R3, you are not expecting dramatic changes to your operations, and you have a great relationship with your Dynamics partner, you could choose to take no action.

We speak to many businesses that are still successfully using Dynamics AX 2012 R3, even though it is at end of life. If you don't feel well supported by your partner, we offer third-party support for those who wish to continue using their AX software, with no pressure to migrate to D365 until the time is right for you.

Struggling with your Microsoft Partner? Learn more about our Dynamics Medic Service >

2. Migrate to Dynamics 365

If you think you benefit from the advantages an upgrade could bring to the future of your business, it's most definitely worth a look into migrating to Dynamics 365

It's also worth finding out about Microsoft's 'Bridge to the Cloud 2' promotion, which offers a 40% discount for upgrading from on-prem AX to cloud-based Dynamics 365.

We fully understand that there may be some hesitation when considering an upgrade, so why not get in touch with us for a no-obligation, initial chat?

Are you running AX on an unsupported SQL server?

If you are a Dynamics AX 2012 R3 user, although the software is at end of life, you can still run your operations on it successfully. However, if you are running AX on an unsupported SQL server, your business is vulnerable – it will be well worth moving onto a supported SQL server.

Consider an upgrade to Microsoft Dynamics 365

Choosing to invest in an upgrade to Dynamics 365 can open an array of benefits to businesses that currently use Dynamics AX 2012 R3 (or Dynamics AX 2012 R2, or AX 2009). Dynamics 365 can allow businesses to receive a higher return on their investments through the utilisation of new technology and capabilities.

Dynamics 365 vs AX 2012 R3 - Features & Capabilities

The Dynamics 365 interface promotes easy usability and more visual data insights than ever before, which not only helps to improve decision-making throughout your workforce but also to provide a boost in productivity which ultimately affects your operations positively.

Powerful insights are available throughout Dynamics 365 which makes it easy for your users to digest data and make better decisions in the process. Embedded BI (Business Intelligence) provides additional capabilities which are not available in Dynamics AX 2012, such as advanced reporting and advanced personalisation.

Dynamics 365 can be taken with you, wherever you go. Mobile compatibility means that users can access information on the go when they need it most. Not only will this help to streamline current operations within your business, but an upgrade to D365 can also provide a huge improvement in communication capabilities both internally and externally.

Dynamics 365 - Security & Cloud Services

Microsoft Azure provides security and stability to the various cloud services that it maintains to help businesses operate and perform better. Microsoft provides continuous investment into security each year which gives secure services for all Dynamics 365 users.

The use of Microsoft cloud services not only offers a reduction in infrastructure costs but also provides scalability for those choosing to use it, this not only allows your business to grow at its own pace but it provides a platform which grows with your business and can be scaled up or down at any point. Read up on the pros and cons of cloud vs on-premise for ERP software.

Want a discussion about what Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 R3 end of support could mean for you?

Get in touch with us for an initial chat about third-party support for Dynamics AX 2012 R3 end of life users, or the potential of upgrading to Dynamics 365. Call on 01384 400 600, email info@syscom.plc.uk, or submit a contact form below.