EOL Timeframes for Business IT Hardware
Understanding the Lifecycle: End-of-Life (EOL) Guidelines for Business IT Hardware
Similar to your vehicle’s tires that keep it rolling or your home’s roof that protects you, your IT environment’s hardware needs to be replaced and upgraded. These items have an EOL – End Of Life attached to them provided by the manufacturer.
Here are the main hardware types that impact your IT environment and should not be ignored when reaching it’s EOL.
Computers (Desktops and Laptops) Lifespan
Typically, 3-5 years is considered a practical lifespan for business computers.
EOL: Manufacturers usually provide support for hardware for about 5 years, after which they may stop offering repair services or updates.
Servers Lifespan
Servers can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years depending on the use case, with 5 years being the average for many business uses.
EOL: Manufacturers like Dell, HP, and IBM generally provide updates and support for about 5 years, though extended support options may be available.
Networking Equipment (Switches, Routers) Lifespan
Typically, 5-7 years.
EOL: Support and updates might extend a bit longer than personal computers, around 7 years, but this can vary based on technology changes and manufacturer policies.
Storage Systems (SAN, NAS) Lifespan
Between 5-10 years.
EOL: Similar to servers, support often lasts for about 5 years, with extended options available.
Printers and Copiers Lifespan
3-5 years for regular use.
EOL: Support often lasts around 5 years, though less critical updates may cease earlier.
We suggest not going past 5 years for servers and storage systems as these are critical pieces for your business operations.
Is your business IT hardware reaching it’s end of life?