Long term support (LTS) refers to the practice of providing ongoing support and maintenance for a software product or system for an extended period of time. LTS is typically offered for a set period of time, such as 3 to 5 years, during which the software vendor or provider will provide bug fixes, security updates, and other types of support to users of the software.
The goal of LTS is to provide a stable and reliable platform for users of the software, particularly those who rely on it for critical applications or mission-critical systems. LTS helps to ensure that users have access to the latest security updates and bug fixes, and that they can continue to use the software without the need to constantly upgrade to the latest version.
LTS is often contrasted with short term support (STS) or rapid release cycles, in which software is updated and released on a more frequent basis. While STS can be useful for users who want access to the latest features and innovations, it can also be more challenging for organizations to keep up with the rapid pace of change and to ensure that their systems are always up to date.
LTS is often used in a variety of contexts, including operating systems, database software, and application development platforms. It is an important consideration for organizations and individuals who rely on software for critical applications and need to ensure that they have access to reliable and stable software platforms.