Operating System Support Lifecycle
Quick Overview
- This article defines the support lifecycle for operating systems used at SFASU.
- Operating systems progress from testing through supported status and eventually to end of life (EOL).
- Only supported operating systems are approved for use on University-owned systems.
- Lifecycle decisions are aligned with vendor support timelines whenever possible.
General Information
This guide defines the lifecycle of Information Technology Services (ITS) support for operating systems used at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU). It is intended to explain the support timeframe for an operating system from initial testing through end of life (EOL).
New operating system versions are evaluated and incorporated as they are announced and released by vendors. Support decisions consider security, stability, compatibility with enterprise applications, and vendor lifecycle guidance.
When available, ITS references vendor-published lifecycle documentation. Current OS lifecycle information is displayed in the tables below and is also available as a downloadable PDF in the article attachments section.
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Note on Apple Operating Systems
Apple does not publish official operating system lifecycle schedules or long-term release forecasts. As a result, macOS support determinations are based on Apple security update availability and industry best practices.
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Vendor Lifecycle References
OS Support Statuses
The image below defines the support status categories used to classify operating system versions.
Operating System Support Lifecycle Guide
As of: November 1, 2025
Questions or Assistance
Contact the IT Help Desk at (936) 468-4357 (HELP).