While Ubuntu 12.04 LTS (long-term support) is reaching the end of its support cycle this April, Canonical has announced Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) for users who do not upgrade as often.
Users opting for the ESM release need to purchase Ubuntu Advantage package. The paid version will offer important security fixes for kernel and other essential packages.
“Following the end-of-life of Ubuntu 12.04 LTS, Canonical is offering Ubuntu 12.04 ESM, which provides important security fixes for the kernel and the most essential user space packages in Ubuntu 12.04,” Canonical said in a statement.
Later Ubuntu version recommended
Though the ESM release plan is now out, Canonical recommends all Ubuntu 12.04 LTS users to upgrade to 14.04 LTS or 16.04 LTS. But if you want to continue with the dated version, you can install the Ubuntu 12.04 ESM build on your system.
The Ubuntu 12.04 LTS was originally released back in April 2012. Codenamed Precise Pangolin, the Ubuntu version is so far one of the most advanced LTS releases.
