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Microsoft to Discontinue VPN Feature in Microsoft 365

In a significant change to its Microsoft 365 subscription offering, Microsoft has announced plans to eliminate the VPN feature later this month. Initially introduced as a means to enhance user privacy, the VPN utilized the Microsoft Defender application to encrypt internet traffic and disguise IP addresses. The termination date for this service is scheduled for February 28th.

In an official communication, Microsoft stated, “We routinely evaluate the usage and effectiveness of our features. As such, we are removing the privacy protection feature and will invest in new areas that will better align to customer needs,” according to a support note highlighted by Windows Central.

While subscribers to Microsoft 365 will continue to receive access to identity theft protection and credit monitoring services within the United States, they will need to seek alternative solutions for VPN services. The decision to remove the feature appears to stem from low usage rates, as the VPN lacked comprehensive capabilities that would have encouraged wider adoption. Users faced limitations such as a monthly data cap of 50GB and mandatory connections to local regions, restricting users from circumventing geo-blocking commonly associated with VPN use.

This announcement follows just weeks after Microsoft raised subscription prices for the first time in 12 years, increasing costs by an additional $3 per month. The updated pricing includes new Office AI features; however, subscribers can opt to revert to a classic plan that retains the original pricing structure for Personal or Family subscriptions, although this would not include the additional AI functionalities.

Source
www.theverge.com