cPanel recently announced that, in version 108 – which is expected to be released in December 2022 or January 2023 – it will remove support for Horde webmail. This decision marks a significant change for cPanel users, as Roundcube will be the only webmail client integrated in future, replacing Horde.
Why is Horde being removed?
There are technical reasons behind this decision. Horde webmail is not compatible with PHP version 8, which is the current industry standard, whilst support for PHP 7.4 officially ended in November 2022. This means that Horde has become obsolete, and its secure or efficient operation in a modern environment can no longer be guaranteed.
What will happen to the data?
The cPanel team is working on a migration tool that will make it easier to switch from Horde to Roundcube or to the cPanel CCS (Calendar and Contacts Server) system. This tool will enable the secure transfer of address books, calendar entries and other important data, so that users can continue working seamlessly in the new environment.
How will this change affect users?
The change will be particularly significant for those who currently use Horde on a daily basis. Roundcube offers a modern and user-friendly interface with a range of advanced features, including faster performance and broader support. However, during the transition period, it is advisable to follow the guides and use the tools provided by cPanel to ensure that your data is preserved.
What does the future hold?
This step is part of cPanel’s evolution towards the latest technologies and standards. The switch to Roundcube not only serves to maintain compatibility but also to improve the user experience in the long term.
If you are affected, it is worth finding out about the details of the migration process in advance and preparing for the switchover. cPanel’s aim is to make this transition as seamless as possible and to ensure that users can continue to work with reliable and up-to-date tools in the future.