Linux End of Life Dates

Developers rely on operating systems that provide a stable and secure foundation for their applications, which is why Linux has been a popular choice since its initial release on 17 September 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is a family of free-and-open-source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, offering a flexible and customizable platform for a wide range of use cases. The Linux kernel is maintained by a community of developers led by Linus Torvalds, ensuring that the operating system stays up-to-date with the latest security patches and features. This community-driven approach has contributed to Linux's widespread adoption, with many developers using it as the basis for their projects.

The end-of-life landscape for Linux is complex, with a total of 35 versions released to date, of which 28 have reached their end-of-life. Currently, 7 versions remain active, with the latest stable version being 6.1.175. Looking ahead, the next version to reach its end-of-life is 5.15, which is scheduled to expire on 31 December 2026. This means that developers still using version 5.15 should start planning their migration to a newer version to ensure they continue to receive security updates and support. The most recent end-of-life date was 22 April 2026, when version 6.19 reached the end of its life cycle.

In terms of security, Linux has a strong track record, with no known Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) currently tracked. This means that there are no critical vulnerabilities to be concerned about, and no specific version is more affected than others. As a result, developers can focus on using Linux as a secure foundation for their applications without worrying about known security risks. However, it is still essential for developers to stay up-to-date with the latest versions and security patches to ensure the long-term security and stability of their projects. By doing so, they can take advantage of the many benefits that Linux has to offer, including its flexibility, customizability, and community-driven development model.