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2025-01-15
The tech world is ever-evolving, and staying updated is crucial for seamless operations. In line with this, the Ubuntu 20.04 hosted runner image is set to be retired by April 1, 2025, as part of the N-1 OS support policy. This means users must transition to newer versions like Ubuntu 22.04 or Ubuntu 24.04 to avoid disruptions. To ensure a smooth transition, the team has outlined a series of brownout dates and breaking changes that users need to be aware of.
Key Highlights of the Retirement Plan
1. Ubuntu 20.04 Retirement Timeline:
– The Ubuntu 20.04 image will be fully retired by April 1, 2025.
– Brownout periods will be implemented in March 2025 to raise awareness and encourage migration. These include:
– March 4: 14:00 UTC ā 22:00 UTC
– March 11: 13:00 UTC ā 21:00 UTC
– March 18: 13:00 UTC ā 21:00 UTC
– March 25: 13:00 UTC ā 21:00 UTC
2. Artifact Actions v3 Retirement:
– Artifact actions v3 will be retired by January 30, 2025.
– Brownout periods for v3 of `actions/upload-artifact` and `actions/download-artifact` are scheduled for:
– January 16: 15:00 UTC ā 19:00 UTC
– January 23: 14:00 UTC ā 22:00 UTC
– Note: GitHub Enterprise Server customers will continue to receive support for v3.
3. Actions Cache Storage Update:
– Starting February 1, 2025, Actionsā cache storage will transition to a new architecture.
– Versions v1 and v2 of `actions/cache` and all versions of the `@actions/cache` package prior to 4.0.0 will be retired.
– Users must upgrade to `actions/cache` v3 or v4 to avoid workflow failures.
– GitHub Enterprise Server customers will remain unaffected by this change.
What Undercode Say:
The retirement of Ubuntu 20.04 and the associated changes to artifact actions and cache storage mark a significant shift in the tech landscape. Hereās a deeper analysis of what this means for developers and organizations:
1. The Importance of Staying Updated:
The tech industry thrives on innovation, and outdated systems can become a liability. The retirement of Ubuntu 20.04 underscores the importance of keeping systems up-to-date to ensure compatibility, security, and performance.
2. Impact on Workflows:
For teams relying on Ubuntu 20.04, the transition to newer versions may require adjustments to workflows. However, the benefits of using supported and optimized systems far outweigh the temporary inconvenience.
3. Brownout Periods as a Wake-Up Call:
The scheduled brownout periods serve as a proactive measure to alert users about the impending changes. These temporary failures are designed to nudge developers into action, ensuring they migrate before the final retirement date.
4. Enterprise Support Continuity:
GitHub Enterprise Server customers are exempt from these retirements, highlighting the platformās commitment to providing tailored solutions for enterprise needs. This ensures minimal disruption for large-scale operations.
5. Migration Challenges and Opportunities:
While migration can be daunting, it also presents an opportunity to reevaluate and optimize workflows. Developers can leverage the latest features and improvements in Ubuntu 22.04 and 24.04, as well as the updated versions of artifact actions and cache storage.
6. Community and Documentation:
The availability of detailed migration guides and announcements in the `actions/cache` and `actions/toolkit` repositories demonstrates the collaborative nature of the tech community. Developers are encouraged to utilize these resources for a seamless transition.
In conclusion, the retirement of Ubuntu 20.04 and related updates are a reminder of the dynamic nature of technology. By embracing these changes, developers can future-proof their workflows and continue to deliver high-quality results. Stay informed, plan ahead, and make the most of the opportunities that come with progress.
References:
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