CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)Network OperationsMedium
A vendor notifies a company that a firewall model has reached end-of-support (EOS), though the hardware remains functional and installed in production. What is the primary risk this status introduces?
- AThe firewall will be physically removed by the vendor
- BThe vendor will no longer provide security patches or technical support
- CThe device will immediately stop passing traffic
- DThe device's warranty period automatically extends
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The vendor will no longer provide security patches or technical support
End-of-support (also called end-of-service-life) means the vendor no longer issues firmware updates, security patches, or technical assistance for the device, leaving it increasingly vulnerable over time even though it still functions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Vendors do not physically remove customer-owned equipment.
- C. EOS does not disable the device; it continues operating normally.
- D. Warranties do not extend at EOS; they typically expire earlier.
End-of-Support (EOS)
The point in a product's lifecycle when the vendor stops providing updates, patches, and technical support, even though the device may still be sold or in use.
- Different from end-of-life (EOL), which means the product is no longer sold
- EOS devices become higher security risks over time
- Lifecycle documentation should track EOS dates for planning replacements
Memory trick: EOS = End Of Support, Security Stops.