Computer Lifecycle / Lifecycle End of Life

Recommended Computer Life Span / Lifecycle End of Life (EOL) — Mechanical Engineering (ME)

Standard lifecycle recommendation

Mechanical Engineering IT (ME-IT) recommends a 5-year service life for all computers. As a baseline, any computer kept in service must be able to run the current, supported operating system and must be replaced within one (1) year of the manufacturer ending support (End of Support/EOS). 

Why computing device lifecycle standards matter

All technology products follow a lifecycle. When a computer reaches End of Life (EOL), the manufacturer typically ends security updates, driver/firmware updates, and technical support. Operating EOL devices increases risk and exposes the university and its users to known vulnerabilities that are common targets for malware, ransomware, viruses, unauthorized access, data theft, and data loss.

To remain secure and supportable, Mechanical Engineering computing systems must be capable of staying fully up to date, including:

• Operating system updates

• Device firmware and driver updates

• Vendor-issued security patches and related protections