Top 3 Strategies for Managing Drupal 7 End-of-Life

Drupal 7 has powered thousands of websites for over a decade. But come January 5, 2025, all official support ends—no more security patches, bug fixes, or updates.

So, what should organizations do? A rushed decision could cost time, money, and even security. That’s why we’ve outlined 3 proven strategies to help you navigate Drupal 7 EOL with confidence.

1. Plan a Migration to Drupal 11

Upgrading to the latest Drupal version ensures long-term stability and access to new features.
Why migrate?

• Drupal 11 offers modern tools, better performance, and stronger security.
• It’s the best path for businesses with long-term Drupal commitments.

What to consider:

• Cost and timeline: Migrating is closer to a full rewrite, so plan ahead.
• Module compatibility: Some Drupal 7 modules will need replacements.
• Partner with experienced migration teams for a smoother process.

2. Opt for Extended Support

If migrating isn’t feasible in the short term, HeroDevs Drupal 7 Never-Ending Support (NES) allows you to stay secure and compliant on Drupal 7 while you plan.

Why choose LTS providers?

• Get critical security patches and updates for Drupal 7 core and modules.
• Avoid compliance risks like PCI DSS, HIPAA, or GDPR fines.
• Continue operations without disruption while planning a larger transition.

3. Prioritize Security Patches and Updates

For organizations that choose to stay on Drupal 7 temporarily:

• Perform regular vulnerability scans to identify weaknesses.
• Harden your infrastructure with tools like Web Application Firewalls (WAF) and automated monitoring.
• Develop a clear incident response plan to address potential breaches quickly.

Warning: DIY security and patching often requires significant developer resources and may leave gaps if vulnerabilities go unnoticed.

Compare Extended Support Providers

If you decide to use extended support, choose your provider wisely. Not all LTS solutions are equal. Here are key factors to compare:

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Why HeroDevs Stands Out

At HeroDevs, we provide Drupal 7 NES—a seamless, drop-in solution that ticks all the boxes:

• Enterprise-grade SLAs: 14-day response times for critical vulnerabilities.
• Full coverage for contrib modules: Not just core.
• Transparent reporting: Access to CVEs and patch updates.
• Affordable and easy to adopt: No major migrations, no downtime.

Conclusion: Be Proactive—Choose the Right Strategy

Drupal 7’s EOL is a challenge, but with a solid plan, you can turn it into an opportunity. Whether you migrate, explore alternatives, or choose extended support, taking action now is key to protecting your business.

Need secure, reliable support for your Drupal 7 site? Learn more about HeroDevs’ industry-leading Drupal 7 NES today.