NumPy Version 1.x End of Life: What You Need to Know

NumPy has been an indispensable tool in the Python ecosystem, particularly for scientific computing and data analysis. Released in 2006, it revolutionized numerical computation by offering efficient handling of large multi-dimensional arrays and matrices, along with a vast array of mathematical functions. Over nearly two decades, NumPy has helped make Python the go-to language for technical computing. However, as of September 2025, the 1.x version of NumPy will officially reach its End of Life (EOL) based on SPEC 0.

What Does "End of Life" Mean?

When a software version reaches EOL, its maintainers stop issuing updates, bug fixes, and security patches. That means:

• Increased exposure to vulnerabilities
• Loss of community support
• Incompatibility with newer libraries and systems
• Compliance and audit risks

For technical teams, this translates into a growing liability, especially in regulated industries or mission-critical environments.

The Arrival of NumPy 2.0

In June 2024, NumPy released version 2.0, which introduced a host of new features and performance improvements.

Key changes include accelerated sorting functions, enhanced linear algebra operations on macOS, resolution of compatibility issues on Windows, and improvements to both the Python and C APIs. These updates have led to cleaner code and an overall better experience for users.

While upgrading to the latest version offers numerous benefits, it also comes with significant breaking changes, many of which affect both the Python and C APIs.

Challenges in Migrating to NumPy 2.0

While NumPy 2.0 is the future, not every team can afford to migrate right away. Common blockers include:

• Tight budgets and resource constraints
• Complex legacy codebases that rely on NumPy 1.x behavior
• Dependencies that haven’t been updated for 2.0
• Strict uptime or production reliability requirements

This leaves many developers caught between the pressure to upgrade and the risks of staying on unsupported software.

HeroDevs' Never-Ending Support (NES) for NumPy 1.x

That’s where HeroDevs comes in.

We offer Never-Ending Support (NES) for organizations that need to stay on NumPy 1.x. With NES, we:

• Deliver ongoing security updates after the official EOL
• Ensure regulatory compliance for organizations in finance, healthcare, and government
• Provide expert guidance and compatibility support
• Actively monitor for vulnerabilities—even in third-party dependencies

Our goal? Ensuring your applications remain secure, compliant, and compatible, without forcing a rushed migration.

Why NES for NumPy 1.x?

HeroDevs is more than a vendor—we're a Certified Numbering Authority (CNA) and work directly with open-source communities to maintain high standards of security and sustainability.

By choosing our NES for NumPy 1.x, you're not just avoiding risk—you're buying time to modernize your stack on your terms.

Conclusion

As NumPy 1.x approaches its End of Life, organizations relying on this version must carefully consider their options. While upgrading to NumPy 2.0 may be the ideal path for many, the costs and complexities of migration can be prohibitive. For companies that need to stay on NumPy 1.x, HeroDevs’ Never-Ending Support offers a lifeline, providing ongoing security updates and compliance. Don’t let EOL leave your business exposed—reach out to HeroDevs today to ensure your software remains secure and supported well into the future.

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