What is EOL?

End-of-Life (EOL) is a term a manufacturer uses to indicate a device has reached the end of its lifespan and will no longer be sold or supported. This generally occurs because a newer model has entered the market, and the manufacturer wants to give a push to upgrade to a new device. Understanding the device end-of-life cycle is crucial for maintaining a robust and secure physical security infrastructure.

Why is managing device end-of-life important?

Most businesses use a variety of physical security devices purchased from different vendors. Each device has its own recommended lifecycle, and each manufacturer offers a range of warranties and service plans to cover these device lifecycles. It is essential to stay on top of all the EOL dates and any required updates for your entire fleet of physical security devices. Proactive device end-of-life management of physical security devices ensures that your organization maximizes its IT assets. For example, devices that are past their EOL but are still within warranty are still supported by the manufacturer, and in some cases, it may be prudent to continue using those devices even after the EOL date. Teams can also use EoL as a planning tool as it serves as a warning about the device’s End of Service (EOS), the date when firmware updates, security patches, and manufacturer support will no longer be available.

Complexities of managing EOL

Managing EOL for physical security devices is not as simple as having an Excel spreadsheet with a list of dates. Understanding the EoL date can be complex as every manufacturer has its own approach. Some manufacturers make it easier than others to find accurate dates. Also, since EoL dates can change at the manufacturer’s discretion, there may be conflicting or incorrect dates listed on the Excel spreadsheet.

It is also necessary to manage the firmware that comes with these devices. Some manufacturers have a 1:1 relationship between firmware and physical security device model, while others have universal firmware that covers a range of devices. 

The complexity of managing device End-of-Life increases with the size and diversity of your physical security system, making it essential to have a systematic approach. Staying on top of EOL is nearly impossible for enterprise organizations that deploy various models of devices multiplied by the different device types from multiple manufacturers, all of which were onboarded at different times. Add to this the complexities involved when individuals within the organization make device acquisitions or onboard new devices without the involvement of the person responsible for managing these devices. The result is a hodge-podge that no Excel spreadsheet could ever contain.

What is the risk of unmanaged EOL?

Using physical security devices that have surpassed their EOL is a risk – both a physical safety risk and a cyber security risk. If your access control panels or surveillance cameras suddenly cease functioning because they are beyond their prime, your people and property could be in danger. In addition, unsecured devices are a common cyber vulnerability that opens the door to a breach. For example, if a manufacturer releases a critical security patch, the patch will be incompatible with devices that have passed their EOL date.

Unmanaged device end-of-life can lead to compliance issues, as outdated devices may no longer meet industry regulations or standards. Non-compliance is a hot topic these days and can have severe financial and reputational repercussions for a business.

Unmanaged EOL can also drain your budget. Don’t be the organization that scrambles to replace its entire fleet, paying top dollar because the EOL date is fast approaching. Clear visibility into the timeline for all your physical security devices is critical for financial planning. Spreading the replacement costs of thousands of devices over the years will maximize budgets and eliminate any unpleasant surprises involved with replacing fleets of devices in one-go, allowing your team to prioritize maintenance and purchasing activities. 

SecuriThings Enterprise: Visibility through a single pane of glass

SecuriThings Enterprise is a software-only solution that allows the operational management of physical security devices to take place in a consolidated, automated, and secure manner while providing real-time visibility and control. Once deployed, the solution provides full visibility into the device end-of-life (EOL) timeline of the entire fleet of devices, as well as suggested replacement models for a seamless replacement process.

For more information about how your organization can benefit from centralized EoL management, you can schedule a demo here.

FAQs

What does device End-of-Life (EOL) mean for physical security?

Device End-of-Life in physical security refers to the point when a manufacturer officially discontinues a product. This means they cease manufacturing the device, stop providing technical support or customer service for it, and most importantly, stop releasing firmware updates and security patches. This leaves the device vulnerable to new threats and exploits, as it can no longer be updated to address emerging security risks.

How can I determine the device End-of-Life (EOL) for my physical security devices?

Determining the device End-of-Life involves several steps. First, consult the manufacturer’s official documentation or website for the specific device. They often publish EOL announcements or provide a list of EOL products. If that information isn’t readily available, you can contact the manufacturer’s customer support for clarification. Additionally, several software solutions are designed to track and manage device EOL dates across your entire physical security system, making it easier to stay informed.

What are the risks of using devices past their device End-of-Life (EOL)?

Using devices past their EOL poses significant risks to your physical security. The most critical risk is vulnerability to cyberattacks, as outdated devices lack the latest security patches and are susceptible to known exploits. This can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and even control over your security systems. Additionally, using EOL devices may result in non-compliance with industry regulations or standards, potentially leading to legal liabilities or fines. Moreover, as these devices age, they become more prone to malfunctions and failures, causing disruptions to your operations and increasing maintenance costs.

How can I manage device End-of-Life (EOL) for my physical security system?

Managing device End-of-Life (EOL) requires a proactive approach. It starts with maintaining an accurate inventory of all devices in your physical security system, including their model numbers and purchase dates. Regularly check manufacturer websites or use software tools to track EOL dates for your devices. Once you identify devices nearing EOL, develop a phased replacement plan. Prioritize replacements based on the criticality of the device and its potential impact on security. Budget for replacements in advance to avoid unexpected expenses.