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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.
- Systems running unsupported operating systems may be restricted or removed from the network.
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 explains the support timeframe for an operating system from initial testing through end of life (EOL).
New operating system versions are evaluated as they are 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.
Why This Matters
Operating systems that are no longer supported by the vendor do not receive security updates, increasing the risk of exploitation, data compromise, and system instability. Maintaining supported operating systems is required to align with university security standards and applicable state regulations.
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Note on Apple Operating Systems
Apple does not publish official operating system lifecycle schedules or long-term release forecasts. 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 following statuses are used to classify operating system versions:
| Status |
Use |
| Supported |
Approved for use on university-owned and managed systems. Fully supported by ITS. |
| Limited Support |
Still operational but nearing end of support. Upgrade should be planned. ITS support may be limited. |
| Testing |
Currently under evaluation by ITS. Not approved for general use on university systems. |
| Unsupported |
No longer supported by the vendor or ITS. Systems must be upgraded or removed from the network. |
Operating System Support Lifecycle Guide
As of: November 1, 2025
Operating systems not listed as Supported or Limited Support should be considered Unsupported.
Enforcement
Systems running unsupported operating systems may be:
- Blocked from network access
- Restricted from accessing university systems and services
- Subject to remediation actions by ITS
These controls are implemented to reduce security risk and ensure compliance with university policy and state security requirements.
Personal Devices
Personal devices used to access university resources must run a supported operating system. Devices that do not meet minimum requirements may be denied access to university systems.
Questions or Assistance
Contact the IT Help Desk at (936) 468-4357 (HELP).