Microsoft recently made the decision to cease development of NTLM in Windows Server, adding another network function to the list of terminations. This time, the company has chosen to discontinue support for DirectAccess.
DirectAccess was introduced in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 as a new method for connecting users to corporate networks without the need for a VPN installation. Since its inception, Microsoft has worked on developing new network capabilities to enhance user productivity and is now prepared to replace DirectAccess with a more contemporary solution.
Official documentation from Microsoft recommends transitioning from DirectAccess to Always On VPN, stating, “DirectAccess is outdated and will be removed in future Windows releases. We recommend migrating from DirectAccess to Always On VPN.”
For IT administrators looking to implement these changes, Microsoft Learn has a special page dedicated to explaining the benefits of moving from DirectAccess to Always On VPN and providing guidance on the migration process.
In addition to DirectAccess and NTLM, Microsoft will also cease support for several other functions in 2024, including GUI for Driver Verifier, API NPLOGONNOTIFY and NPPPASWORDCHANGENOTIFY, TLS server authentication with short RSAs, and Test Base for Microsoft 365.
It is crucial to distinguish between outdated functions and remote functions. While components that are no longer being developed may continue to function within the operating system for a period, they will not receive updates or new features. Eventually, Microsoft will remove them from Windows, as exemplified by WordPad, which will no longer be included in the Windows 11 update 24H2.
To keep track of outdated functions in consumer versions of Windows, a list can be found here. Additionally, a list of functions that Microsoft will no longer be developing in Windows Server 2025 has been recently published and can be accessed here.
These changes reflect Microsoft’s commitment to modernizing their products and enhancing the user experience by offering more contemporary and efficient solutions.