Microsoft Publisher is discontinued: what it means for you
Yes, Microsoft Publisher is being retired. Below are the dates Microsoft gives on its support page, what still works, and how to keep your .pub files readable.
Key dates
| Date | What happens (per Microsoft Support) |
|---|---|
| October 1, 2026 | Microsoft 365 subscribers lose access to Publisher, "on or shortly after" this date. |
| October 13, 2026 | Support ends for perpetual versions (Publisher 2016, 2019, 2021). |
What still works
- A perpetual copy already installed on Windows keeps opening .pub files, without support or security updates.
- Your .pub files themselves are not deleted, but no current Microsoft 365 app opens them.
- Microsoft recommends converting existing files to PDF or Word and using Word or PowerPoint for common Publisher tasks (Microsoft Support).
What to do with your .pub files
- If you still have Publisher, save each file as PDF while you can.
- If you no longer have it, open the file in the free PUB file viewer: it shows the text and photos in your browser, without uploading, and exports PDF, Word or a ZIP with a one-time Pro key (€12.99).
- For new projects, compare the Microsoft Publisher alternatives.
More: how to open a PUB file · what is a PUB file.
Questions
Can I still download Publisher?
Microsoft 365 no longer includes it after the retirement. Check Microsoft's support page for the current situation of your licence.
Will my .pub files still open in Word?
No. Word does not open .pub files; convert them to PDF or Word first.