End-of-Life Technology Can Cost Your Business

Many technologies have routine internal security measures in place. Their support teams create and release updates and patches to make the product more secure and helpful. When your organization’s software reaches “End of Life” (EoL) or “End of Support” (EoS), it will no longer receive those critical updates and patches. It may still function, but using it while unsupported can have dangerous repercussions for your business.

Some business owners may resist upgrading to next gen hardware and software to save money. However, the results are pricey in more ways than one. Utilizing software after its “best by” date puts your business at risk for security breaches. The bottom line is that employing EoL technology puts the security, performance, compliance, and compatibility of your IT infrastructure in danger.

Four Risk that EoL/EoS Tech Poses to Your Business

Security Risks

Security patches and updates keep your business network secure against vulnerabilities that hackers may exploit. However, if you’re using EoS software and hardware that can no longer support these critical patches and updates, hackers can easily take advantage of the vulnerabilities and infiltrate your network. The risk of ransomware via EoL software extends beyond downtime to reputation damage, customer churn and revenue loss.

Performance Issues

Older hardware and software are more likely to malfunction, fail and have problems. This can frequently cause delays and interruptions in your business operations, giving the impression that you are unreliable, which can possibly cost you clients. When you have up-to-date hardware and software solutions, you have the highest level of reliability, in turn improving your brand.

Compatibility Concerns

Your software will typically continue to operate as intended when support ends — until it doesn’t. Instability and incompatibility issues could ultimately make the software unusable. EoS deprives IT departments of manufacturer support, forcing them to buy new software before they have an upgrade strategy. Additionally, if you’re using EoL operating systems, you may have to stick with outdated software since operating systems are optimized for new apps.

Compliance Risks

It’s more difficult and expensive to follow government and business requirements when using older technologies. Entrusting your important data to an insecure application or an OS that has reached the end of its useful life may lead to hefty fines, business closures or even potential jail time. By doing this, you jeopardize not only the privacy of your customers but also your legal standing. The effects could be catastrophic for customers and your business.

It may be very challenging to keep up with evolving technology, given the amount of infrastructure that most businesses need. Partnering with an IT service provider is the simplest way to ensure all your hardware and software are regularly maintained and upgraded. Keeping your technology up to date is simple once you have a trusted advisor like us in your corner.

We can help you transition to updated, supported technology. Contact us by completing the form below.