CentOS has long been a popular choice for those seeking a stable, open-source, enterprise-grade Linux distribution. However, with CentOS shifting its focus towards CentOS Stream, many users are searching for alternatives that provide similar features and stability. In this article, we’ll explore some of the Best CentOS alternatives for server operating systems, helping you choose the right option for your needs.
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Rocky Linux
Rocky Linux is a community-driven, enterprise-grade Linux distribution created as a direct response to the shift in CentOS’s focus. Led by Gregory Kurtzer, one of CentOS’s co-founders, Rocky Linux aims to provide a free, open-source, and production-ready operating system that remains true to the original CentOS vision. Key features of Rocky Linux include:
- High compatibility with CentOS and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
- Community-driven development and support
- 1:1 binary compatibility with RHEL
- Long-term support and stability
- Free and open-source
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AlmaLinux
AlmaLinux is another RHEL fork designed to fill the void left by CentOS. Developed and supported by CloudLinux, a company with a strong background in the Linux industry, AlmaLinux offers a stable and feature-rich alternative to CentOS. Key features of AlmaLinux include:
- High compatibility with CentOS and RHEL
- Backed by a well-established company (CloudLinux)
- 1:1 binary compatibility with RHEL
- Long-term support and commitment
- Free and open-source, with a community-driven focus
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Ubuntu Server
Ubuntu Server is a widely-used, versatile, and powerful server operating system that can serve as an excellent CentOS alternative. Developed and maintained by Canonical, Ubuntu Server offers a vast repository of software and a robust community-driven ecosystem. Key features of Ubuntu Server include:
- A large and active community, providing extensive support and resources
- Regular updates and a predictable release cycle
- Long-term support (LTS) releases
- Wide range of pre-built server applications and packages
- Supports various architectures, including x86, ARM, and IBM POWER
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Debian
Debian is a well-established and respected Linux distribution known for its stability, security, and extensive package repository. As a foundation for many other popular distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian has proven its reliability as a server operating system. Key features of Debian include:
- Strong focus on stability and security
- Extensive package repository, with over 59,000 packages
- Large and active community, providing support and resources
- Regular updates and a predictable release cycle
- Supports various architectures, including x86, ARM, and IBM POWER
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openSUSE Leap
openSUSE Leap is a stable, enterprise-grade Linux distribution developed and maintained by the openSUSE project. With its roots in the SUSE Linux Enterprise (SLE) distribution, openSUSE Leap offers a reliable and feature-rich server operating system. Key features of openSUSE Leap include:
- Close integration with SUSE Linux Enterprise
- Stable and secure, with a focus on enterprise-grade features
- Regular updates and a predictable release cycle
- Extensive package repository
- Supports various architectures, including x86, ARM, and IBM POWER
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Fedora Server
Fedora Server is a community-driven Linux distribution backed by Red Hat, offering cutting-edge features and frequent updates. While Fedora’s rapid release cycle and focus on the latest technologies might not make it an ideal choice for those seeking long-term stability, it can be a great option for users who want access to the latest advancements in the Linux ecosystem. Key features of Fedora Server include:
- Backed by Red Hat, ensuring quality and support
- Frequent updates and access to the latest technologies
- Modular package management, allowing for greater flexibility
- Active community providing support and resources
- Supports various architectures, including x86, ARM, and IBM POWER
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Oracle Linux
Oracle Linux is a free, enterprise-grade Linux distribution developed and maintained by Oracle. Compatible with CentOS and RHEL, Oracle Linux offers a stable and secure server operating system with additional features and optimizations for Oracle products. Key features of Oracle Linux include:
- High compatibility with CentOS and RHEL
- Enhanced performance and security features for Oracle products
- Long-term support and commitment
- Access to Oracle’s extensive support infrastructure (additional costs may apply)
- Supports various architectures, including x86, ARM, and IBM POWER
Conclusion:
When seeking a CentOS alternative, it’s crucial to consider factors such as stability, compatibility, support, and the availability of software packages. Each of the alternatives discussed in this article has its unique strengths and features, so the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and requirements.
Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux are excellent choices for those who want a direct replacement for CentOS, as they offer high compatibility with RHEL and a similar focus on stability and long-term support. On the other hand, distributions like Ubuntu Server, Debian, openSUSE Leap, Fedora Server, and Oracle Linux provide a broader range of options, each with its distinct advantages.
When choosing your CentOS alternative, consider your organization’s requirements, the available support and resources, and the specific features and optimizations you need for your server operating system. By carefully evaluating each option, you can find the ideal CentOS alternative to meet your needs and ensure a stable, secure, and feature-rich server environment.