When software reaches its end-of-life (EOL) stage in the product life cycle, it is no longer supported with system updates or security patches. All software eventually becomes EOL, as seen with Microsoft’s announcement of Windows 98 reaching EOL in 2006. Developers or manufacturers usually release updated versions to meet market needs.
The Risks of EOL Software
EOL software poses significant risks to businesses, especially in terms of cybersecurity. Without access to software updates and bug fixes, software becomes vulnerable to cyber attacks, leaving organizations at a higher risk of being targeted by malicious hackers for cyber crimes like extortion.
Despite the risks, some organizations continue to use EOL software due to the reliance on legacy systems. Legacy systems are outdated software or hardware that, despite reaching the end of their product cycle, still satisfy the organization’s requirements. The difficulty in sourcing replacements and resistance to change explain why legacy systems persist, despite the cybersecurity risks they pose.
Dealing with EOL Software
If your organization is still operating with EOL software, it is crucial to prioritize staying informed about software changes. Contact the developer directly to understand the EOL process and when software updates will cease. Adequate notice and transition time are usually given for major software, such as Windows. Moving away from legacy systems and embracing the latest versions of company-wide software will effectively mitigate risks and prevent potential financial losses and damage to your reputation.
Cyber Essentials Certification and EOL Software
Using legacy systems puts organizations at risk of failing the Cyber Essentials certification. If your organization aims for full certification, transitioning away from legacy systems becomes essential. Segmenting your IT estate and certifying subsets can still manage cyber risk, as you will be aware of the EOL software and have the opportunity to minimize the potential damage caused by attackers exploiting it.
The Importance of a Cyber Security Audit
A comprehensive cyber security audit helps identify areas where your organization may fall short in terms of cyber security. Different departments within a large organization may have varying protocols and use different software. Conducting a security audit takes into account all solutions, procedures, and processes to identify security gaps and risks. This process enables the identification of EOL software and vulnerabilities, ensuring the protection of valuable and private internal data.
Consider partnering with external cyber security service providers to conduct cyber security audits and health checks. These experts conduct in-depth assessments of your organization’s operating systems, pinpointing key areas that pose risks to the business and suggesting improvements with a focus on cyber security. They can suggest alternative solutions that prioritize data and information handling without relying on risky EOL software.
Ensure the future success and security of your business by addressing the risks associated with EOL software. Embrace modern software solutions and prioritize cyber security to protect your organization from potential cyber attacks and financial damage.
