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~help  /  News Archive  /  2025 Archive  /  End of Life: Ubuntu 20.04

End of Life: Ubuntu 20.04

Take action to ensure your machine is still supported after May 31, 2025.

On May 31, 2025, Canonical will end support for Ubuntu Linux 20.04 LTS. As the operating system will stop receiving security patches and other software updates, SCS Computing will no longer provide software support unless enrolled in Canonical’s Extended Security Maintenance (ESM).

What is ESM?

While we encourage our community to use a current and SCS-supported operating system whenever possible, we understand there are special situations that may limit the ability to upgrade a computer. Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) is a subscription that provides security updates, critical software packages and infrastructure components without needing to upgrade. ESM extends the security maintenance period for up to five years beyond the operating system's end of life (EOL).

How do I enroll in ESM?

SCS Computing Facilities will automatically enroll workstations in ESM and provide a one-year subscription at no cost to you. After the first year, you can choose to purchase ESM for $25 annually or upgrade your Ubuntu version.

Submit a Request

Please be aware that ESM requires an annual subscription, and we suggest choosing a support plan that aligns with your machine usage. 

For workstations and servers that are not currently under SCS software support, you can purchase Canonical Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) directly from Canonical Ubuntu at:

https://ubuntu.com/pro/subscribe

What if I'm not interested in ESM?

  • Upgrade to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. 
    A member of our Unix Engineering team will reach out to coordinate your upgrade to a supported version of Ubuntu Linux. 

  • Remove Software Support or Retire Computer.
    Not using your computer or want to run it without support? You can submit a request to remove SCS Computing software support and/or retire your computer. 

SCS Software Support for Ubuntu 20.04

Since the operating system will no longer receive security patches or software updates, SCS Computing will stop support for machines running Ubuntu Linux 20.04 LTS unless they are enrolled in ESM. If you do not enroll in ESM or upgrade to a supported OS, SCS software support will be removed automatically as of June 1, 2025. Unsupported computers limit our ability to help you:

  • Your computer will not receive security patches or functionality updates.
  • Our engineering and help desk teams will have limited ability to troubleshoot software and operating system issues on your machine.