Debian, a highly respected and extensively utilized Linux distribution, has shifted its version 11, known as ‘Bullseye,’ from the phase of regular security updates to an Extended Support (ES) period as of the 15th of August, 2024. This alteration occurs precisely three years post its initial launch.

The methodology employed by the distro to uphold its various versions is structured to guarantee stability and security for all its users. Let’s delve deeper. Each Debian release, such as Bullseye, typically experiences three years of standard support from its release teams, followed by an additional two years under the ES umbrella.

This setup renders the lifecycle predictable: a span of five years for supported usage from the date of release. For Bullseye, the phase of regular support concluded on the 14th of August, 2024. The ES phase will now run from the 15th of August, 2024, through to the 31st of August, 2026. Throughout this period, the Debian ES Team will shoulder the responsibilities of the Security and Release teams, focusing exclusively on critical security updates and essential fixes.

If you’re unsure about how to proceed with the upgrade, fret not. Our meticulously crafted step-by-step manual will smoothly guide you through the process of transitioning your system from 11 ‘Bullseye’ to 12 ‘Bookworm.’

It is crucial for users to note that although most packages fall under ES, there may be exceptions that are not supported. To identify these, users can install the “debian-security-support” package, which scans and notifies users regarding any non-supported packages that are crucial for their systems.

With the initiation of Bullseye’s ES phase, users are advised to contemplate upgrading to Debian 12 ‘Bookworm,’ the current stable release. This version will continue to receive regular updates until the 10th of June, 2026, and will subsequently transition into its own ES phase until the 30th of June, 2028.

To delve into further details, please refer to the official announcement on the link provided.