diff --git a/taxonomy/definitions.md b/taxonomy/definitions.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ba66d35 --- /dev/null +++ b/taxonomy/definitions.md @@ -0,0 +1,22 @@ +# Glossary of Terms: Understanding Lifecycle Phases in Technology + +This document aims to clearly define key terms related to the lifecycle of specifications, software, services, and hardware products, providing a reference for understanding various phases including but not limited to creation, releases, sales, until support termination. + + +**Note**: With open source software or hardware, there is typically no "end-of-sales". + +## 1. Software End-of-Life (SEoL) or Software End-of-Sales (SEoS) + +**Definition:** Software End-of-Life refers to the stage in a software product's lifecycle where it is no longer sold. + +## 2. Hardware End-of-Life (HEoL) or Hardware End-of-Sales (HEoS) + +**Definition:** Hardware End-of-Life signifies the phase where a piece of hardware (like a server, router, or computer component) is no longer sold by its manufacturer. + +## 3. End-of-Software Maintenance or Security Vulnerability Support + +**Definition:** This term indicates the final phase of a software product’s lifecycle during which the developer ceases to provide maintenance services, including security patches, bug fixes, or any other form of software updates. Beyond this point, the software may become vulnerable to security risks as new threats emerge. However, a vendor may still support technical questions and may also investigate vulnerabilities in their products without providing a fix. + +## 4. Last Date of Support (End-of-Support) + +**Definition:** The Last Date of Support, or End-of-Support, refers to the final date when all types of support, including technical, maintenance, and security updates, will be provided for a software or hardware product. After this date, the product is considered unsupported and may pose risks or operational inefficiencies for users.