Last checked and updated on 19 May 2026
Django Lifecycle & End of Life (EOL) Policy
Django rolls out new feature releases about every eight months, bringing fresh tools and refinements while striving to maintain backward compatibility.
Some of these feature releases are chosen as long-term support (LTS) versions, getting backed for around three years. This includes a mainstream phase with complete updates -- bugs, security, crashing issues, regressions, and major functionality problems -- then shifts to extended support for security and data loss fixes only.
Non-LTS feature releases stay supported for a shorter time, generally until a couple of newer ones arrive, receiving full fixes in the meantime.
Patch releases come out to tackle specific problems, with key ones backported to active branches. This setup lets projects upgrade at their own pace while staying protected.
The process keeps innovation flowing steadily and offers solid options for production stability.
| Release Type | Support Focus | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Feature (Non-LTS) | Full fixes (bugs, security, critical, etc.). | 8 months. |
| LTS Mainstream | Full fixes including bugs and regressions. | About 8 months (until next feature releases). |
| LTS Extended | Security and data loss fixes only. | Remaining time to reach 3 years total. |
This helps applications remain secure and compatible with the latest Python advancements.
Risks of Using End-of-Life (EOL) Versions
Running Django versions beyond their support window leaves systems without patches for emerging threats, heightening chances of breaches or data compromises.
Shifts in Python or database ecosystems can cause incompatibilities, resulting in errors, slowdowns, or broken features over time.
Regulatory standards often demand current software; unsupported setups might fail checks, leading to operational hurdles.
Teams face growing effort on manual fixes, pulling focus from new work. Transitioning timely avoids these issues and unlocks performance boosts.
Common Concerns
- Unpatched vulnerabilities.
- Ecosystem mismatches.
- Compliance risks.
- Rising maintenance load.
What Happens After Django Reaches EOL
Once EOL arrives, official updates stop completely, including security and bug resolutions.
Projects may run for a while, but exposure to new risks grows without ongoing safeguards.
This marks the ideal moment to upgrade, using available guides to handle changes smoothly.
| Post-EOL Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Updates | None provided. |
| Next Step | Migrate forward. |
People Also Ask -- Django EOL & Support Questions
Q1: How long do Django LTS versions get supported in total?
Around three years, starting with full fixes in mainstream, then security-focused in extended.
Q2: What kinds of fixes come during the mainstream phase of LTS?
Bugs, security, crashing issues, regressions, and major functionality problems in new features.
Q3: What risks are there in sticking with a Django version after EOL?
No more official patches for vulnerabilities or bugs, plus growing compatibility problems.
Q4: When is the best time to upgrade from a Django LTS version?
During or before the end of mainstream support to keep receiving complete updates.
Q5: Where do I find the latest Django support timelines?
In the supported versions table on the official download page.
Tracking & Monitoring Django EOL Dates
The supported versions table on the download page lists current statuses and timelines clearly.
Release notes and announcements provide updates on phase changes.
Useful Practices
- Bookmark the versions list.
- Review patch notes.
- Set calendar alerts.
How To Check Your Django Version
In a Python shell or script:
import django
print(django.get_version())Or from command line:
python -m django --version
In a running project, use manage.py:
python manage.py --version