Microsoft is sunsetting its free VPN feature within Microsoft 365, just weeks after raising prices for its monthly subscriptions for the first time in 12 years. This change, announced in a support document, will take effect on February 28th of this year. The VPN, integrated within the Defender app, offered IP address masking and traffic encryption.
Shifting Priorities in Cybersecurity
Microsoft states that this decision stems from a reassessment of its security offerings. The company aims to “ensure you and your family remain safer online” by focusing on areas better aligned with customer needs. While the free VPN is being removed, Microsoft emphasizes its continued investment in other security features.
Microsoft Office free apps.
Continued Security Features for US Subscribers
U.S. subscribers will retain access to existing data and device protection, identity theft protection, credit monitoring, and threat alerts. However, the previously unlimited VPN has recently been restricted to a 50GB monthly data limit and connected to a local region, diminishing its effectiveness for users seeking broader access.
Weighing the Value of Microsoft 365
The combined impact of the price hike and VPN removal raises questions about the overall value proposition of Microsoft 365. Potential subscribers may want to evaluate whether the remaining features justify the increased cost, especially for those who utilized the free VPN extensively. If you’re looking for ways to access Microsoft Office without a subscription, exploring free options can help determine the subscription’s true value.
Looking Ahead
The discontinuation of this free VPN, introduced in 2023, marks a shift in Microsoft’s approach to online security within its 365 suite. It remains to be seen what new security investments Microsoft will prioritize and how these will impact the user experience going forward.
