Stirbt die MyCloudEX2Ultra?

The WD My Cloud EX2 Ultra has been on the market since February 2016. According to Western Digital (WD), its software support runs until

Although the hardware will continue to function, support for older operating system versions such as My Cloud OS 3 will end at the same time. This means that as of April 2022, no firmware updates, security patches, or technical support will be available for My Cloud OS 3, including the EX2 Ultra, unless upgraded to OS 5.

🔍 Current status and support status

My Cloud OS 3 support ends on April 15, 2022 – after which there will be no more cloud features, remote access, or security updates

EX2 Ultra compatible with OS 5: Those using OS 5 will continue to receive updates and support until at least the end of 2026

If no update is performed, the cloud functionality is limited: devices only work locally, remote access and notifications are disabled

⚠️ Risks and security

No security updates for OS 3 devices increase the risk of security vulnerabilities and exploits. WD therefore strongly recommends disabling remote access, disconnecting the device from the internet, and using a strong password.

Relevant security updates are also available for OS 5. Starting in June 2023, WD will block cloud services if the firmware is older than 5.26.202—after which, cloud access will no longer be available.

🔧 Recommendations for action

Check firmware status: Check your EX2 Ultra's dashboard to see if OS 5 is running and firmware ≥ 5.26.202 is installed.

If OS 3 is installed:

Upgrade to My Cloud OS 5 immediately if compatible.

Otherwise, disconnect the device from the Internet, secure local access and set strong passwords

Consider alternatives: If the device is too old or an OS 5 upgrade is not possible, it is worth switching to a newer NAS with longer support.

Perform regular backups: Regardless of the OS status, back up your data externally on a regular basis.

📣 Conclusion

The EX2 Ultra isn't dying immediately, but WD is significantly reducing support for older operating systems. Users of My Cloud OS 3 should urgently disconnect the device from the internet and back it up locally. Users of OS 5 and keeping the firmware up to date can continue using the system—including cloud features—until at least the end of 2026. After that, however, an upgrade to a modern NAS is recommended.

For home users, the EX2 Ultra with OS 5 remains a practical NAS, but time is ticking. To ensure long-term security and functionality, an update or a successor model makes sense.