- May 21, 2025
- Posted by: Vineeta Birthlal
- Category: Microsoft Dynamics 365
For years, Microsoft Dynamics NAV—formerly known as Navision—has served as a trusted enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution for small to mid-sized businesses around the globe. With its robust financial management tools, supply chain automation, and deep customizability, Dynamics NAV has powered business operations efficiently for decades.
But as technology evolves and Microsoft pushes forward with its cloud-first approach through Dynamics 365 Business Central, many businesses still running older versions of NAV are asking:
“Is Dynamics NAV still supported?”
This blog will provide a definitive answer and guide you through your options.
A Quick History of Dynamics NAV (Navision)
Before diving into current support status, let’s briefly explore how Dynamics NAV came into existence.
Originally developed in Denmark in the 1980s as Navision, the ERP system gained popularity due to its simplicity and adaptability. In 2002, Microsoft acquired Navision and later rebranded it as Microsoft Dynamics NAV.. Over the years, it evolved through various versions (NAV 2009, NAV 2013, NAV 2015, NAV 2016, NAV 2018), each bringing improvements in performance, usability, and integrations.
In 2018, Microsoft introduced Dynamics 365 Business Central—a modern, cloud-based evolution of NAV. Since then, Business Central has become the preferred platform for ERP needs, though many businesses still operate older NAV systems.
So, Is Dynamics NAV Still Supported?
The Short Answer: Yes, But with Limitations
Microsoft continues to provide mainstream and extended support for specific versions of Dynamics NAV. However, most of the older versions have already transitioned out of mainstream support and are now in extended support or are no longer supported at all.
Understanding Microsoft’s Support Lifecycle
Microsoft has a clear and set support schedule for Dynamics NAV:
- Mainstream Support typically lasts 5 years from the product’s release date.
- Extended Support lasts another 5 years after mainstream support ends.
Here’s what that means in simple terms:
| Version | Release Year | Mainstream Support End | Extended Support End |
| NAV 2009 | 2008 | 2015 | 2020 |
| NAV 2013 | 2012 | 2018 | 2023 |
| NAV 2015 | 2014 | 2020 | 2025 |
| NAV 2016 | 2015 | 2021 | 2026 |
| NAV 2017 | 2016 | 2022 | 2027 |
| NAV 2018 | 2017 | 2023 | 2028 |
By 2025, only NAV 2016 and newer versions are still getting extended support. Older versions no longer get regular updates or full support. If you’re running NAV 2015 or earlier, you no longer receive updates or security patches from Microsoft.
What Does Extended Support Mean for Your Business?
If you’re using a version of Dynamics NAV that’s in extended support, here’s what you need to know:
- Security updates are still provided.
- No new features or performance updates are released.
- Limited support for integration issues and compatibility with newer systems.
- No free support incidents from Microsoft.
If you’re experiencing issues or planning upgrades, you’ll need to rely on third-party partners offering Microsoft Dynamics NAV support or Navision support.
Risks of Running Unsupported or Outdated NAV Versions
Sticking with an unsupported version of Dynamics NAV can expose your business to several challenges:
1. Security Vulnerabilities
Without regular patches, your system is susceptible to cyberattacks and data breaches.
2. Integration Challenges
As other software tools evolve (Windows, Office 365, SQL Server), they may become incompatible with older NAV versions.
3. Regulatory Compliance Issues
Industries with strict compliance requirements (like finance or healthcare) could face penalties if outdated systems don’t meet standards.
4. Lack of Innovation
You miss out on the features and automation that newer ERP platforms offer—such as AI-driven insights, advanced reporting, and mobile access.
Your Options: Upgrade or Maintain?
If you’re currently running NAV and concerned about its support status, here are your main options:
Option 1: Upgrade to Dynamics 365 Business Central
Dynamics 365 Business Central is Microsoft’s cloud-based ERP solution that inherits all the core functionalities of NAV and adds:
- AI and machine learning capabilities
- Seamless Microsoft 365 integration
- Cloud hosting and accessibility
- Modern UI and mobile-friendly interfaces
- Continuous updates from Microsoft
Benefits of Upgrading:
- Reduced IT overhead and infrastructure costs
- Improved scalability and performance
- Enhanced security and compliance features
- Future-proofed investment
Option 2: Stay with NAV and Seek Third-Party Support
If your business isn’t ready to transition to the cloud or upgrade yet, you can still maintain your current system with the help of expert partners offering Microsoft Dynamics NAV support.
An experienced partner like Al-Futtaim Technologies can provide:
- Ongoing maintenance and troubleshooting
- Custom development and integrations
- Data backups and security enhancements
- User training and documentation
- Planning and strategy for eventual upgrades
This option gives you extra time to plan for the future, while keeping your business running smoothly with fewer interruptions.
How to Know It’s Time to Upgrade
Ask yourself the following:
- Are you constantly running into system performance issues?
- Do users complain about the interface being outdated or difficult to use?
- Are you missing key features available in newer ERP systems?
- Are maintenance and support costs increasing?
- Is your current partner struggling to keep the system stable?
If you answered “yes” to two or more, it’s time to begin your transition strategy.
Why Partner with Al-Futtaim Technologies?
As a certified Microsoft Dynamics partner, Al-Futtaim Technologies has deep expertise in both legacy NAV systems and modern Dynamics 365 Business Central environments.
Whether you’re looking for ongoing Navision support, exploring the upgrade path, or building a roadmap to digital transformation, Al-Futtaim Technologies offers:
- Certified consultants with decades of NAV experience
- Local and regional support tailored to your industry
- End-to-end implementation and post-go-live support
- Transparent, scalable service models
- We have a strong track record of successfully upgrading and moving NAV systems.
Final Thoughts
To sum up:
- Yes, Dynamics NAV is still supported, but only the newer versions get extended support.
- If you’re running NAV 2015 or earlier, it’s time to plan your next move.
- Relying on a trusted partner for Microsoft Dynamics NAV support ensures your business remains secure, stable, and compliant.
- Planning an upgrade to Dynamics 365 Business Central offers long-term benefits and future-readiness.
Ready to Secure or Upgrade Your NAV System?
Al-Futtaim Technologies is your trusted partner for both Microsoft Dynamics NAV support and seamless migration to Business Central. Whether you want to maintain your current NAV environment or start planning your digital transformation, our experts are here to help.
Contact Al-Futtaim Technologies today to schedule a free consultation or NAV system audit.
Let’s keep your business running smoothly—and ahead of the curve.