1. Introduction
Ubuntu 20.04 LTS (Focal Fossa) was released in April 2020 and has provided many users with a stable development environment and server infrastructure. However, the standard support ended in April 2025, and the system no longer receives security updates or general maintenance.
This article explains the risks associated with continuing to use Ubuntu 20.04 after the end of standard support, available options to extend its lifespan, and how to migrate to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. If you are still running Ubuntu 20.04, immediate action is recommended.
2. Understanding Ubuntu’s Support Lifecycle
Ubuntu offers two release types: Long-Term Support (LTS) releases and short-term releases. LTS versions are widely adopted in enterprise and server environments, where support duration and risk management play a critical role.
What is Ubuntu LTS?
LTS (Long Term Support) is a release model that provides five years of standard support. During this period, users receive security patches and bug fixes, ensuring a stable operating environment. It has been a highly reliable option for businesses and mission-critical systems.
Difference Between Standard Support and ESM (Extended Security Maintenance)
Even after the end of standard support, users can continue receiving essential security updates by enabling ESM (Extended Security Maintenance) through Ubuntu Pro.
| Support Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Support (5 years) | Security patches, bug fixes, and updates for packages and kernel |
| ESM (up to 5 additional years) | Provides only critical security updates (no feature enhancements or general bug fixes) |
Although Ubuntu 20.04 LTS has reached the end of standard support, Ubuntu Pro allows critical security updates to continue until April 2030.
3. Ubuntu 20.04 Support Timeline
- April 2020 – Ubuntu 20.04 LTS released
- April 2025 – End of standard support (already passed)
- April 2030 – Scheduled end of ESM
As of December 2025, continuing to use Ubuntu 20.04 without ESM enabled is not recommended. Systems connected to the internet become increasingly vulnerable.
4. What Happens After Support Ends?
Increased Security Risks
Once vulnerabilities are discovered, no standard support patches will be released. The likelihood of successful external attacks rises, posing severe risks for enterprise environments.
Decreased Software Compatibility
More applications and libraries are removing Ubuntu 20.04 from their supported environments, resulting in growing technical debt if you continue using it.
Required Measures If You Must Continue Using It
- Enable ESM using Ubuntu Pro
- Remove unnecessary packages and PPAs
- Strengthen firewalls and access restrictions
- Create a well-defined migration timeline
5. Recommended Courses of Action
Ubuntu 20.04 users must choose one of the following options:
Option 1: Upgrade to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Recommended)
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS was released in April 2024 and provides the latest security features and performance improvements.
Advantages
- Latest kernel and optimized desktop environment
- Restored long-term support period
- Compatibility with modern software and libraries
Disadvantages
- Upgrade work is required
- Custom configurations and old PPAs may not work
Option 2: Extend the Lifespan with Ubuntu Pro (ESM)
By enabling Ubuntu Pro, you can receive ESM security updates until 2030.
- Free for up to five personal machines
- Supports server environments
- Enable ESM with the following commands
sudo pro attach
sudo pro enable esm-infra
sudo pro enable esm-apps
6. How to Migrate to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS
Preparation Before Upgrading
- Back up important data (using rsync or tar)
- Verify custom configurations and PPAs
- Ensure sufficient disk space (check with df -h)
Upgrade Procedure
- Update packages
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y - Install the upgrade tool
sudo apt install update-manager-core - Run upgrade
sudo do-release-upgrade - Reboot and verify operation
7. FAQ
Q1: Can I continue using Ubuntu 20.04?
A1: It is technically possible, but using it without ESM is not advised due to increased security risks.
Q2: Can I use ESM for free?
A2: Yes. Ubuntu Pro allows individual users to enable ESM on up to five machines at no cost.
Q3: Should I migrate to Ubuntu 24.04?
A3: If you plan to operate your system long-term, upgrading to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is strongly recommended.
8. Conclusion
Ubuntu 20.04 LTS has already passed the end of standard support, making continued use increasingly risky. Consider upgrading to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS or enabling ESM through Ubuntu Pro to secure your system and ensure long-term stability.
Official Announcement
Refer to the official announcement for more details on the Ubuntu 20.04 support end and use it to guide your migration plans.
