Upgrade with fewer surprises: SP3 updates platform compatibility and adds Azure SQL Database support with managed identities for the Sync Service.
Many organizations continue to depend on Microsoft Identity Manager (MIM) 2016 for scenarios that are not easily replicated elsewhere, such as:
Synchronization across multiple directories and forests:
- Complex attribute flows and identity correlation logic
- Management of custom objects and extended schemas
- Deep integration with on-premises applications
Microsoft Identity Manager (MIM) 2016 Service Pack 3 (SP3) is now generally available. SP3 focuses on stability and supportability and updates compatibility with current platform components such as SQL Server, SharePoint, and Exchange. It also adds a new deployment option for the Synchronization Service: Azure SQL Database, with authentication through system-assigned and user-assigned managed identities to help reduce operational risk in hybrid identity environments.
In this release
Run MIM on current platform components
- Updated compatibility for newer platform releases, including SQL Server 2022 and Exchange Server Subscription Edition (SE).
- New Synchronization Service database option: Azure SQL Database with authentication via system-assigned and user-assigned managed identities.
Modernize the MIM Service and Portal experience
- Deploy the MIM Portal on SharePoint Subscription Edition (SE).
- Support for System Center Service Manager Data Warehouse (DW) 2022 for reporting and audit integration.
- Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) single sign-on (SSO) support for claims-based authentication, enabling users to sign in through AD FS instead of Windows integrated authentication.
Download and upgrade information
- Based on your licensing, you can download the installer packages here: Microsoft Identity Manager licensing and downloads | Microsoft Learn
- SP3 introduces a new upgrade process. Please follow the documented steps carefully: Upgrade Microsoft Identity Manager 2016 from SP2 to SP3 | Microsoft Learn
- Operational recommendation: Validate SP3 in a non-production environment first, then roll it out to your production environment.
Support lifecycle
MIM 2016 SP2 will remain supported for 12 months (through May 2027), in line with the service pack support lifecycle policy. Customers should plan to upgrade from SP2 to SP3 within that window. For details, see: Fixed Lifecycle Policy | Microsoft Learn
MIM 2016 remains supported through January 9, 2029, under Microsoft’s Fixed Lifecycle Policy. While MIM continues to support critical identity scenarios, Microsoft is actively investing in Microsoft Entra as the long-term platform for identity governance and lifecycle management. We recognize that some MIM use cases require a phased or hybrid approach, and we are working closely with customers to support these transitions.
Questions about upgrading to SP3 or planning your longer-term identity strategy? Contact your Microsoft account team or support contact to review your environment, timelines, and transition path.
Ben Mann, Group Product Manager
Microsoft Entra
Africa Development Center (ADC)
Additional resources
- About MIM 2016 - Microsoft Identity Manager | Microsoft Learn
- Migrate from MIM to Entra ID - Migrating to Microsoft Entra ID from Microsoft Identity Manager | Microsoft Learn
Learn more about Microsoft Entra
Prevent identity attacks, ensure least privilege access, unify access controls, and improve the experience for users with comprehensive identity and network access solutions across on-premises and clouds.
Microsoft