This feature is used by remote workers to access company networks, but it has been superseded and is now considered outdated. As is so often the case with the deprecation of Windows features, there is currently no precise timeline for removal, but Microsoft is advising users to make the move to Always On VPN.

The company has also provided detailed instructions for how to migrate from DirectAccess to Always On VPN. Its age means that in terms of features and security it is now somewhat lacking, hence the push towards Always on VPN.

Microsoft has not, as yet, made a big announcement about the deprecation of this particular feature, but it is the latest addition to the “Deprecated features for Windows client” list the company maintains. We recommend migrating from DirectAccess to Always On VPN.

Always On VPN, however, has mitigated most of those limitations or expanded the VPN functionality beyond the capabilities of DirectAccess. Always On VPN addresses the previous gaps between Windows VPNs and DirectAccess.