EOL (End of Life)

EOL (End of Life) refers to the stage in a product's lifecycle - whether it is software, hardware, or a service, when the manufacturer officially ceases to provide updates, bug fixes, or technical support. This status indicates that the product is being retired. In the technology sector, EOL is often declared when a product becomes outdated, a new version is released, or maintaining older versions is no longer efficient.

Once a product reaches its EOL, users may encounter increased security risks, reduced compatibility with newer systems, and difficulties in maintaining compliance. For businesses, relying on EOL software can lead to operational vulnerabilities and higher maintenance costs. Organizations are generally advised to migrate to supported versions to ensure security and optimal performance.