End of support for Ubuntu 20.04 imminent

Ubuntu is currently pointing out that regular support for the Linux distribution in version 20.04 (Focal Fossa), which was released in April 2020, will end shortly. As options for those affected, Ubuntu recommends either buying an extended support license Ubuntu Pro or updating to Ubuntu 24.04 – but with a small loop in the process.

Focal Fossa is a Long-Term Support version (LTS), which is provided with security updates for five years. This ends on May 29, 2025. Ubuntu recommends that users check whether an update to 24.04 – is also an LTS version –. However, the official migration path is via the intermediate step to Ubuntu 22.04 (also LTS). Ubuntu provides instructions and tips on possible pitfalls for this: instructions for upgrading to Ubuntu 22.04 LTS (Jammy Jellyfish) and then for upgrading to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Noble Numbat).

Ubuntu: Switching to supported versions

The two versions will still receive active support with security updates and bug fixes, the company explains. For those for whom the upgrade is not an option, Ubuntu offers the official extended support program “Expanded Security Maintenance” with Ubuntu Pro.

Ubuntu Pro provides updates for thousands of packages for a total of ten years. A year ago, Ubuntu extended the support period in the Ubuntu Pro program even further, and interested parties can book two additional years of support. This means that even twelve years of support are possible, and it is currently even possible to run Ubuntu version 14.04 without having to do without security updates.

Ubuntu 20.04 was released in April 2020. The most noticeable changes concerned visual innovations, performance improvements and support for the ZFS file system.

(dmk)