Microsoft has announced that it will be discontinuing its free VPN feature in Office 365 on February 28, just weeks after raising subscription prices for the first time in 12 years. The VPN feature, introduced in 2023, was designed to enhance privacy by encrypting internet traffic and masking users’ IP addresses through the Defender app. However, the company now plans to shift its focus to other security initiatives.
In a support document, Microsoft explained the decision to remove the VPN, stating, “Our goal is to ensure you and your family remain safer online. 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 with customer needs.”
The announcement comes on the heels of a $3 monthly price increase for both Personal and Family Microsoft 365 plans. The price hike and feature removal have left many subscribers questioning the value of the service. For privacy-conscious users, the removal of the VPN could be a significant loss, as the feature provided an added layer of security for web browsing.
Microsoft has emphasized that other online safety features will continue to be available for U.S. subscribers. These include data and device protection, identity theft prevention, credit monitoring, and real-time threat alerts. However, critics have pointed out that the VPN’s limitations—including a 50GB monthly data cap and local-region server restrictions—already undermined its effectiveness for users seeking unrestricted internet access.
The move has sparked debate among users about the changing landscape of Microsoft’s services. Some feel that Microsoft is prioritizing other investments over maintaining a comprehensive suite of security tools. Privacy experts have expressed concern that the removal of features without clear replacements could erode user trust.
“When companies introduce price increases alongside feature removals, it can lead to frustration among subscribers,” said tech analyst Daniel Harris. “Microsoft will need to communicate what new benefits users can expect in exchange for these changes.”
The VPN’s removal has also led many users to explore alternative options. Dedicated VPN providers often offer more robust services without data caps or server restrictions. For users who prioritize privacy and unrestricted access, these third-party solutions may be more appealing.
Microsoft has not specified exactly how it plans to reinvest resources following the VPN’s removal. However, the company has been heavily focused on enhancing its productivity tools and security offerings through AI-powered features. These improvements may include advanced threat detection, real-time collaboration enhancements, and better integration across Microsoft’s ecosystem.
The subscription price increase has further intensified the debate over the value of Microsoft 365. While Office apps like Word, Excel, and OneDrive remain popular, competition from alternatives such as Google Workspace and open-source options like LibreOffice is growing. Subscribers are now weighing whether the full suite of services justifies the higher cost.
For users who want to try Microsoft Office without committing to a subscription, there are still free alternatives available. Microsoft offers web-based versions of its Office apps with core functionality, and some users, including students and educators, may qualify for free access under specific programs.
The free VPN was part of Microsoft’s broader push to enhance online safety when it was launched in 2023. The feature aimed to protect users from cyber threats by encrypting data and hiding their online activities. Despite these benefits, the VPN’s data cap and regional server limitations limited its appeal for more advanced use cases.
Privacy advocates have pointed out that removing features like the VPN may leave some users more vulnerable to cyber risks. Without a secure browsing option, users who rely on Microsoft 365 for online protection may need to adopt additional security measures.
Looking ahead, Microsoft will need to address these concerns by providing clear updates on its plans. Enhancements to other security features or new tools could help alleviate frustration among subscribers. Communication and transparency will be crucial as the company navigates these changes.
Subscribers will have until February 28 to continue using the free VPN before it is officially retired. Microsoft is urging users to explore other safety features that remain part of the Office 365 offering. Meanwhile, those seeking robust privacy protection may need to turn to alternative VPN services to maintain their security online.
The decision to end the free VPN highlights the ongoing evolution of subscription services. As companies like Microsoft balance feature updates, security improvements, and pricing strategies, user expectations continue to shift. Whether Microsoft’s efforts to realign its priorities will resonate with subscribers remains to be seen.