Signage Player Operating System End of Life (EOL) and Security Window

Ensuring digital signage ecosystem remains secure, reliable, and optimized for performance is the primary goal for any network. Managing the lifecycle of your signage player is essential for ensuring security, performance, and reliability.

What is End of Life (EOL)?

For most systems, there is an eventual End of Life (EOL). EOL refers to the final stage of an operating system or software version that doesn't receive additional updates as the developer no longer supports that version of the product. Using systems after this date enhances vulnerabilities and security risks as well as playback compatibility issues.

If My Player Is End of Life, Does That Mean It Will Stop Working?

Your player will continue working, even if it has reached this milestone. If your player is EOL, we suggest purchasing the equivalent current version of your player model(s), so that you can take advantage of additional functionality, bug fixes, features, and improved playback performance.

What is the Security Window?

Operating Systems, such as those used in digital signage, operate within a Security Window. This is the period during which the operating system will continue to receive critical updates & patches to address vulnerabilities. This window ensures that your signage players remain secure and functional within its lifecycle.

However, once the security window closes, the software has reached End of Life and your player becomes increasingly susceptible to threats. You can continue using your players after their end-of-life date; however, it’s important to note that these devices become increasingly vulnerable over time and can also lead to potential playback issues.

What Operating System do Mvix Players use?

Mvix players are powered by a bespoke version of the Linux-based Ubuntu Operating System. The operating system (OS) is customized to enhance player reliability, playback performance and reduced dependencies. Major releases are rolled out every 2 years with support ending after 5 years. Current and previous versions are shown below:

VersionRelease DateEnd of Standard Support24.04 LTSApril 2024April 202922.04 LTSApril 2022April 202720.04 LTSApril 2020April 202518.04 LTSApril 2018April 202316.04 LTSApril 2016April 2021

Where can I review my Player's Current OS?

From the device library page, you should see a column for "OS Version". If any player's operating system is outside of the Security Window, they will have a (1) red exclamation mark. Since the OS is supported by Ubuntu for 5-years, Mvix players purchased and deployed > 5 years ago are generally susceptible to EOL.

If the column is not showing, (2) click on the three dots to the top right of the module and then toggle the "OS Version" option on.

Systems with Deprecated OS

Ubuntu Linux 18.04 LTS reached the end of its five-year LTS window on April 30th 2023 and is no longer supported by its vendor. At that time, Mvix has stopped receiving security patches or other software updates from Ubuntu.

Ubuntu Linux 16.04 LTS reached the end of its five-year LTS window on April 30th 2021 and is no longer supported by its vendor. At that time, Mvix has stopped receiving security patches or other software updates from Ubuntu.

Options for Secure Network

We strive to ensure that your digital signage ecosystem remains secure, reliable, and optimized for performance.

Unfortunately, devices outside of the Security Window can cause frequent breakdowns and become a significant security risk. Unsupported players (operating systems) limit our ability to help troubleshoot playback problems.

Your players will still work and will remain connected to the Mvix CMS to display your content, even after the End of Life milestone. However, we do suggest upgrading your player that will include additional functionality, bug fixes, and security updates.

We provide several options for keeping player operating systems fresh and compliant. Contact our Solutions Consultants for more information.

Signature Care: Keeping Players Secure with Lifetime Warranty

For a hassle-free solution, consider joining the Mvix Signature Care Program. This service provides you with a new signage player every 36-months, ensuring continuous compatibility with the latest operating systems and eliminates downtimes.

This helps keep your digital signage ecosystem secure and offers peace of mind with continuous maintenance cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it important to address EOL for my signage player?
   • Operating systems that are no longer supported are at risk of security vulnerabilities that can compromise your signage network. Timely updates or replacements ensure your players remain secure and functional.
2. What happens if I don't upgrade or replace my player?
   • Your players will still remain connected to Mvix CMS and will continue to display your content. However, unsupported operating systems can lead to performance issues, compatibility problems, and exposure to cyber threats.
3. Can I add one of my older players to the Signature Care Program?
   • Absolutely. Please contact one of our solutions consultants for more information.
4. Can I upgrade the operating system to my device directly?
   • Mvix Players utilize a customized version of the Ubuntu Operating System. As such, in-field updates to players are not possible.
5. How can I upgrade my player?
   • Please contact our Solutions Consultant Team to discuss your options.

Problems, Questions, Corrections: If you have any further questions, problems, or corrections you would like to see made, please open a support ticket.