If you’ve worked with Docker images in containerized environments, you’ve likely encountered Alpine Linux. But then comes the question: “This version is EOL – should I upgrade?” Today, we’ll dive into Alpine Linux’s version support policy and detailed EOS/EOL schedules for each release.
1. What is Alpine Linux?
Alpine Linux is a security-oriented, lightweight Linux distribution. What makes it unique is its deliberate departure from common Linux distribution choices.
Key Features of Alpine Linux:
- musl libc: Unlike most Linux distributions that use glibc, Alpine adopts the lightweight musl libc
- BusyBox-based: Uses BusyBox instead of GNU Core Utilities to minimize system size
- APK package manager: Features its own package system rather than RPM or DEB
- OpenRC init system: Uses OpenRC instead of systemd
- Small footprint: Base image is under 150MB
These characteristics make it particularly popular in Docker container environments. Its small image size enables faster builds and deployments, while the reduced attack surface provides security advantages.
2. How Does Alpine Linux’s Release Cycle Work?
Alpine Linux follows a different release strategy compared to other Linux distributions.
Release Policy:
- 6-month cycle: New versions are released regularly in May and November each year
- Edge branch: The development branch where stable snapshots are taken to create official releases
- Multiple concurrent support: Several versions are supported simultaneously, allowing users to choose based on their needs
Since Alpine Linux 3.0.0 was released in 2014, we’ve progressed to version 3.22. The number after the first decimal point effectively serves as the major version identifier.
3. Support Policy – Main vs Community Repositories
Alpine Linux divides its package repositories into two categories.
Main Repository:
- Contains core system packages and essential applications
- Security updates provided for 2 years
- The officially supported primary repository
Community Repository:
- Contains additional packages
- Supported only until the next stable release
- Typically has a shorter support period of about 6 months
Update Policy:
- Latest release: Receives both bug fixes and security patches
- Previous supported releases: Security patches only
- Post-EOL: Patches may be provided upon request when available
4. Currently Supported Alpine Linux Versions (As of October 2025)
Here are the actively supported Alpine Linux versions. (Last updated: October 8, 2025)
| Version | Release Date | EOL Date | Latest Patch | Support Period | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.22 | May 30, 2025 | May 1, 2027 | 3.22.2 | 2 years | ✅ Supported |
| 3.21 | December 5, 2024 | November 1, 2026 | 3.21.5 | 2 years | ✅ Supported |
| 3.20 | May 23, 2024 | May 1, 2026 | 3.20.8 | 2 years | ✅ Supported |
| 3.19 | December 7, 2023 | November 1, 2025 | 3.19.9 | 2 years | ✅ Supported |
| 3.18 | May 10, 2023 | May 9, 2025 | 3.18.12 | 2 years | ⚠️ EOL Soon |
Important Notice:
- Alpine Linux 3.18 will reach EOL on May 9, 2025
- If you’re currently running 3.18, we recommend upgrading to 3.19 or later
- Latest patch versions were released on October 8, 2025
5. Complete Alpine Linux 3.x Version Support Status
A comprehensive overview of all major versions from Alpine Linux 3.0 to present.
5-1. Alpine Linux 3.17 ~ 3.9 Versions (EOL Completed)
| Version | Release Date | EOL Date | Latest Patch | Support Period | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.17 | November 22, 2022 | November 22, 2024 | 3.17.10 | 2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.16 | May 23, 2022 | May 23, 2024 | 3.16.9 | 2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.15 | November 24, 2021 | November 1, 2023 | 3.15.11 | 2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.14 | June 15, 2021 | May 1, 2023 | 3.14.10 | 2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.13 | January 14, 2021 | January 14, 2023 | 3.13.12 | 2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.12 | May 29, 2020 | May 1, 2022 | 3.12.12 | 2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.11 | December 19, 2019 | November 1, 2021 | 3.11.13 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.10 | June 19, 2019 | May 1, 2021 | 3.10.9 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.9 | January 29, 2019 | November 1, 2020 | 3.9.6 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
5-2. Alpine Linux 3.8 ~ 3.0 Versions (EOL Completed)
| Version | Release Date | EOL Date (Estimated) | Latest Patch | Support Period | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.8 | June 26, 2018 | May 1, 2020 | 3.8.2 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.7 | November 30, 2017 | November 1, 2019 | 3.7.3 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.6 | May 24, 2017 | May 1, 2019 | 3.6.5 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.5 | December 22, 2016 | November 1, 2018 | 3.5.3 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.4 | May 31, 2016 | May 1, 2018 | 3.4.6 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.3 | December 18, 2015 | November 1, 2017 | 3.3.3 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.2 | May 26, 2015 | May 1, 2017 | 3.2.3 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.1 | December 10, 2014 | November 1, 2016 | 3.1.4 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
| 3.0 | June 4, 2014 | May 1, 2016 | 3.0.6 | ~2 years | ❌ EOL |
Notes:
- Exact EOL dates for versions 3.8 and below are not officially documented, but follow the approximate 2-year support policy from release date
- All EOL versions no longer receive security updates and are not recommended for production environments
5-3. Alpine Linux 2.x and 1.x Versions (Historical Reference)
Alpine Linux had 2.x and 1.x series before 3.x.
| Major Version | Notable Releases | Release Period | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.x | 2.7, 2.6, 2.5, 2.4, 2.3, 2.2, 2.1, 2.0 | 2010 ~ 2014 | ❌ EOL |
| 1.x | 1.10, 1.9, 1.8, 1.7 | 2008 ~ 2010 | ❌ EOL |
These versions remain for historical reference only and are not used in modern environments.
6. How to Check Your Current Version
Want to know which Alpine Linux version you’re running? It’s simple.
Check version in terminal:
cat /etc/alpine-release
For example, if it displays 3.18.5, you’re running Alpine Linux 3.18.5.
Check in Docker container:
docker run alpine:latest cat /etc/alpine-release
This command shows which version the current Docker Hub latest tag points to.
7. Upgrade Considerations
When upgrading Alpine Linux, keep these points in mind.
Pre-upgrade Checklist:
- Package compatibility: Some packages may not be compatible due to musl libc
- Kernel and driver changes: Hardware compatibility issues may arise
- Configuration file changes: Configuration methods may differ between versions
- Performance impact: Test the performance characteristics of new versions beforehand
Safe Upgrade Process:
# 1. Back up first
apk add rsync
# Back up critical data
# 2. Update package index
apk update
# 3. For major version upgrades
apk upgrade --available
# 4. Reboot
reboot
Refer to the official Upgrading Alpine Guide for more detailed information.
8. Managing Alpine Linux EOL in Docker Environments
When using Docker, Alpine Linux EOL management requires extra attention.
Docker Image Update Strategy:
# Bad - Pinning specific version
FROM alpine:3.18
# Good - Using supported stable version
FROM alpine:3.21
Regular Image Rebuilds:
- Application images should be rebuilt when base images are updated
- Include regular image updates in your CI/CD pipeline
Leverage Multi-stage Builds:
# Build stage
FROM alpine:3.21 AS builder
RUN apk add --no-cache build-base
COPY . /app
WORKDIR /app
RUN make build
# Runtime stage
FROM alpine:3.21
COPY --from=builder /app/dist /app
CMD ["/app/myapp"]
9. What If You Must Continue Using EOL Versions?
Sometimes you need to keep using a specific version due to legacy systems or compatibility issues.
TuxCare’s ELS (Endless Lifecycle Support):
TuxCare provides commercial support for EOL Alpine Linux versions.
- Ongoing updates for Critical and High-risk vulnerabilities
- Security support for essential server packages
- Security updates across all architectures
Self-managed Security:
- Use vulnerability scanning tools (Trivy, Grype, etc.)
- Strengthen network isolation and firewalls
- Conduct regular security audits
However, upgrading to the latest supported version is always the safest approach when possible.
10. References and Useful Links
Resources for the latest Alpine Linux information.
Official Documentation:
- Alpine Linux Official Website
- Alpine Linux Releases
- Alpine Linux Wiki
- Alpine Linux Blog
- Alpine Upgrade Guide
EOL Tracking:
Community:
Security:
Alpine Linux is an excellent distribution optimized for containerized environments. However, regular updates and version management are essential.
With Alpine Linux 3.18 reaching EOL on May 9, 2025, plan your upgrade if you’re still using this version. Choose a stable version among 3.19, 3.20, 3.21, or 3.22 based on your needs.
Understanding Alpine Linux’s 2-year support policy and managing it proactively enables safe and efficient system operations. Make it a habit to regularly check versions and mark EOL dates on your calendar.