End-of-Life (EOL)

What does end-of-life mean?

End-of-life (EOL) refers to the point at which a product – e.g. software or hardware – is no longer supported by the manufacturer. This usually means that updates, security patches or technical support are no longer provided. Devices or applications that reach the EOL stage are often susceptible to security risks and should be replaced by newer products.

Risks and need for action

Ignoring EOL products can have serious consequences, including security vulnerabilities, incompatibilities and performance issues. Companies should carefully monitor EOL schedules and create timely upgrade or replacement plans to ensure the smooth operation of their IT infrastructure.