Overview
Start by getting to know your IBM Software Support options for On-premises Software. They include:
- IBM Subscription and Support (also referred to as ‘Base’ support): A comprehensive update and technical support solution included with the purchase of IBM software programs licensed under the IBM International Passport Advantage Agreement (IPLA).
- IBM Extended Support: A software support option for specific product versions or releases that have reached their Base Support Completion dates.
- IBM Sustained Support: A software support option for products acquired through IBM Passport Advantage that have reached Base Support Completion for all versions and releases.
- IBM Advanced Support: A software support option for products acquired through IBM Passport Advantage for which you require prioritized case handling and shorter response time objectives than what’s available with standard Subscription and Support.
Take Action
Stay on top of new software release announcements (eGAs) and upcoming Base Support Completion (BSC) (sometimes referred to as their End-of-Support) dates.
If you find that a newer version (or release) of your software is available or that your in-use software is approaching its Base Support Completion (BSC) date (sometimes referred to as End-of-Support (EoS) date), take action.
Your best option is to use your IBM Software Subscription and Support benefits to download a newer version or release before the impending BSC date. Learn how.
If for any reason, you are not able to download a newer VRM before the VRM you are running reaches its BSC date or no newer VRM is available for download, connect with your Renewal Rep, preferred IBM Business Partner, or IBM Sales Rep to explore one or more of the following options.
- IBM Extended Support, giving you more time to download a newer VRM.
- Sustained Support, giving you up to 5 additional years of support coverage when the last supported version or release has reached its BSC date.
Get Notified
Go to the IBM Support Product Lifecycle home page.
- Search by Product name, version, or ID
- Subscribe to the lifecycle news feed or
- Download daily XML data or
- Download a full copy of the IBM Product Lifecycle product list in CSV format
Sign up to stay informed of critical IBM product support updates with My Notifications.
Subscribe to Software Announcements. Use your S&S benefits to get maximum value from your software investments.
Explore all versions or releases of your IBM software are transitioning to Extended or Sustained Support in 2H 2025 and 1H 2026.