QNAP has announced the extension of security update support for some network-attached storage (NAS) enclosures that are considered end of life (EOL). This is in light of recent attacks that affected owners of not only QNAP NAS but other brands too. NAS that is considered EOL only typically receives security updates for set periods, but QNAP is extending this for some models.
Malware is a serious concern for NAS owners, even the best NAS can be affected. When a product reaches the end of life, it’s usually the case that the security of the said device is compromised by recent threats that have yet to be patched.
QNAP has a policy of maintaining security updates for four years after a NAS enclosure passes the set EOL date. As well as keeping the operating system updated, it’s strongly recommended to install all security patches released by NAS companies. This extension will be in effect until October 2022 and covers x86 64-bit models or ARM models that support the following OS versions:
- QTS 4.2.6
- QTS 4.3.3
- QTS 4.3.6
- QTS 4.4.1
These models will receive limited support in the form of high or critical security updates. QNAP doesn’t recommend connecting EOL NAS models to the internet, restricting access to LAN clients. If you’re wanting to check the EOL date of a specific model, see QNAP’s website.
