DoIT Departmental Tech Support - End of Life Software removal
Overview
To maintain system security and stability, the IT department is removing several software components that have reached End-of-Life (EOL). These legacy components no longer receive security patches, making them a significant vulnerability to the organization.
The removal process happens automatically in the background. Most users will not experience any service interruptions.
What is being removed?
The following legacy runtimes and libraries are being decommissioned:
| Component | Versions Affected | Replacement / Action |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable | All versions prior to 2013 | Most apps now use 2015-2022 versions. |
| Microsoft .NET Desktop Runtime | Versions below 8.x | Updated to .NET 9.0 for modern support. |
| Microsoft ASP .NET Core Runtime | Versions below 8.x | Updated to ASP .NET Core 9.0. |
| Java Runtime Environment (JRE) | Java 8 and older | Transitioning to secure, managed Java versions. |
Why are these installed on my machine?
These components are "runtimes"—essentially a digital toolkit that 3rd-party applications (like accounting software, specialized browsers, or older drivers) use to run. They are often left behind even after the original application is uninstalled or updated.
Why is this change necessary?
-
Security: As of 2026, these versions are unsupported. They do not receive critical security patches, leaving your device vulnerable to modern exploits.
-
Stability: Old runtimes can cause conflicts with newer versions of software.
-
Compliance: Removing EOL software is a requirement for our organizational security audits.
What do I need to do?
In most cases: Nothing.
These removals will occur in the background and should be transparent to end-users. However, if you have any questions or think you're using a legacy application that requires one or both of these older components, please reach out as soon as possible so we can assess your needs: Departmental Tech Support portal.
-
Test Legacy Apps: If you rely on an older, specialized application that hasn't been updated in several years, try running it today.
-
Monitor for Errors: If a program fails to launch with a "Missing DLL" or "Runtime Error" after the cleanup, it likely requires an exemption.
Requesting an Exemption
We understand that some mission-critical or specialized legacy tools may still require older software to function. If your department relies on software that is incompatible with current versions, you can request to be added to the Official Exemption List.
How to submit a request:
-
Navigate to the Departmental Tech Support Portal.
-
Select "Submit a Ticket".
-
Provide the Name of the legacy application and the specific runtime it requires.
-
Include a brief business justification for why this software cannot be upgraded.
Departmental Support will review your request and, if approved, exclude your device from the automated removal process.