Exploring the Best CentOS Replacement Options

With Red Hat’s decision to end CentOS, developers and companies are now on the hunt for an alternative Linux operating system. In this guide, we will explore the top CentOS replacement options and help you find the perfect solution for your needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Red Hat’s discontinuation of CentOS has left users searching for alternative Linux operating systems.
• Top CentOS replacement options include Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, and Fedora.
• Each alternative offers its own unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences.
• Consider factors such as stability, support, compatibility, and pricing when choosing a CentOS replacement.
• It is important to evaluate your requirements and choose the CentOS replacement that best fits your business needs and goals.

Top CentOS alternatives: Comparison table

In the following chart, we note how five CentOS alternatives compare in terms of performance, migration tools and resources, security and compliance, supported architectures, support and lifecycle, and pricing.

Alternative	Performance	Migration Tools and Resources	Security and Compliance	Supported Architectures	Support and Lifecycle	Pricing
Red Hat Enterprise Linux	Highly reliable and robust	Advanced tools and resources	Advanced security and compliance	Wide range of architectures	Long-term support	Starting at $179
Oracle Linux	Advanced performance and reliability	Compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux	Robust security features	Various architectures	Free and paid versions available	Additional features in paid versions
Rocky Linux	Stable and reliable	Compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux	Similar security features	Support for multiple architectures	Community-backed support	Free and open-source
AlmaLinux	Stability and compatibility	Seamless transition for CentOS users	Community-supported security	Compatible with RHEL packages	Community-backed support	Free and open-source
Fedora	Cutting-edge features	Support for latest technologies	Community-supported security	Various architectures	Regular updates and releases	Free and open-source

As seen in the comparison table, each CentOS alternative offers its own unique set of features and advantages. Red Hat Enterprise Linux provides advanced security, stability, and long-term support for large enterprises, while Oracle Linux excels in performance and is particularly suitable for IT and software development companies. Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux aim to fill the gap left by CentOS’s discontinuation and offer compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Fedora, on the other hand, is a cutting-edge distribution that targets programmers and those who prefer a rolling release model.

It is important for users to carefully evaluate their specific requirements and preferences when choosing a CentOS replacement. Factors such as performance, security, compatibility, support, and pricing should all be taken into consideration to ensure the selected alternative meets the business needs and goals.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux: Best for large enterprises

When it comes to finding a suitable replacement for CentOS in large enterprise environments, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) emerges as the top contender. RHEL is a highly reliable and robust operating system specifically designed to meet the needs of large organizations. It offers advanced security, stability, and support, making it an ideal choice for businesses operating on a larger scale.

RHEL provides a wide range of features that cater to the requirements of enterprise customers. These features include enhanced security mechanisms, such as SELinux, which offers mandatory access control, and strong integration with enterprise-grade security solutions. Additionally, RHEL offers unparalleled support and a long lifecycle, ensuring that businesses have access to timely patches, updates, and technical assistance.

Another advantage of RHEL is its compatibility with various hardware architectures, allowing enterprises to choose the infrastructure that best suits their needs. Whether it’s x86, ARM, or IBM Power, RHEL provides comprehensive support, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and infrastructure.

“Red Hat Enterprise Linux is our go-to choice for large enterprise environments. Its advanced security features, stability, and excellent support make it the ideal replacement for CentOS.”

Key features of Red Hat Enterprise Linux:

• Advanced security and compliance
• Stability and long-term support
• Compatibility with various hardware architectures
• Enterprise-grade support and timely updates

However, it’s important to note that RHEL is a commercial product, and it comes with a pricing model starting at $179. While the cost may be a consideration for some organizations, the benefits and reliability RHEL offers are often well worth the investment for large enterprises.

Oracle Linux: Best for IT and Software Development Companies

When it comes to finding a suitable replacement for CentOS, Oracle Linux emerges as a top choice, particularly for IT and software development companies. Featuring full compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Oracle Linux offers advanced performance, rock-solid reliability, and robust security features. Its ability to handle heavy-duty workloads and provide built-in tools for development makes it an ideal option for organizations in the IT and software development sectors.

Oracle Linux is backed by a thriving community of users and developers, ensuring continuous support and frequent updates. As a result, enterprises can rely on Oracle Linux to meet their long-term stability and support requirements. Whether it’s deploying enterprise applications, building cloud services, or developing software solutions, Oracle Linux provides the necessary tools and resources to streamline operations and drive innovation.

With both free and paid versions available, Oracle Linux offers flexibility and scalability to suit the needs and budgets of different organizations. The paid versions include additional features and premium support, while the free version still provides access to essential functionality and security updates.

By adopting Oracle Linux as a replacement for CentOS, IT and software development companies can ensure a seamless transition while leveraging a powerful and reliable operating system that meets their specific requirements. With its compatibility, performance, and comprehensive tooling, Oracle Linux proves to be an excellent choice for organizations seeking a CentOS alternative.

Rocky Linux: Best for die-hard CentOS fans

For die-hard CentOS fans who are looking for a stable and reliable replacement, Rocky Linux is the perfect choice. Created by Gregory Kurtzer, the original founder of CentOS, Rocky Linux aims to provide a seamless transition for users who are familiar with CentOS. This community-driven CentOS fork offers similar features and performance to CentOS, making it a great alternative for those who want to continue using a CentOS-like operating system.

Rocky Linux is fully compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), ensuring that users can leverage the extensive ecosystem and support available for RHEL. It also offers long-term stability and security updates, giving users the confidence they need for their critical business applications.

Backed by a strong community of users and developers, Rocky Linux ensures that it will continue to evolve and receive ongoing support. With Rocky Linux, CentOS fans can continue their work with minimal disruption and enjoy a familiar and reliable operating system.

Comparison table: Rocky Linux vs. CentOS

Feature	Rocky Linux	CentOS
Stability	High	High
Compatibility with RHEL	Yes	Yes
Community Support	Strong	Strong
Performance	Excellent	Excellent
Long-term support	Yes	Yes

As seen in the comparison table, Rocky Linux and CentOS offer similar features and performance, making Rocky Linux an ideal choice for CentOS fans. With its strong community support and compatibility with RHEL, Rocky Linux ensures a smooth transition for users and provides the stability and reliability required for critical business applications.

AlmaLinux: Best for those familiar with CentOS

AlmaLinux is a highly recommended option for those who are familiar with CentOS and are seeking a smooth transition to a new operating system. Developed by CloudLinux Inc., AlmaLinux aims to fill the void left by the discontinuation of CentOS. It provides a stable and reliable RHEL-based distribution, ensuring compatibility with existing CentOS packages and infrastructure.

One of the key advantages of AlmaLinux is its strong community support. Users can rely on a vibrant community of users and developers who are actively involved in improving and maintaining the distribution. This collaborative environment ensures timely updates, bug fixes, and security patches, providing users with the peace of mind they need.

Furthermore, AlmaLinux offers long-term support (LTS) and follows a predictable release cycle, making it suitable for businesses and organizations that prioritize stability and long-term compatibility. Whether you are a small business or a large enterprise, AlmaLinux provides the necessary features and support to meet your specific requirements.

Features and Benefits of AlmaLinux

• Seamless transition for CentOS users
• Compatibility with existing CentOS packages and infrastructure
• Long-term support and predictable release cycle
• Strong community support and involvement
• Stability and reliability for business and enterprise use

AlmaLinux is an ideal choice for those who seek a CentOS replacement that offers familiarity, stability, and a strong support network. It allows users to continue leveraging their existing CentOS resources while benefiting from the ongoing development and support provided by the AlmaLinux community.

Fedora: Best for Programming and Rolling Release Distribution

Fedora is a popular Linux distribution that stands out for its cutting-edge features and support for the latest technologies. It is widely recognized as an excellent choice for programmers and individuals who prefer a rolling release distribution. Developed by the Fedora Project and supported by Red Hat, Fedora offers a range of software packages and development tools that cater to the needs of tech-savvy users.

One of the key advantages of Fedora is its commitment to staying at the forefront of software innovations. It is known for its frequent releases, which means users can access the latest updates and features without waiting for major distribution updates. This makes Fedora an ideal choice for developers who want to work with cutting-edge technologies and stay ahead of the curve.

In addition to its focus on programming and development, Fedora also provides a rich and diverse software ecosystem. Users have access to a vast library of packages and tools, ensuring that they can find the resources they need for their projects. The Fedora community is vibrant and actively contributes to the development and improvement of the distribution.

Key Features of Fedora:

• Rolling release distribution model
• Frequent updates and access to the latest software
• Support for a wide range of programming languages and frameworks
• Robust security features and regular security updates
• Vibrant and active community support

While Fedora offers many benefits, it is important to note that its rolling release model may not be suitable for everyone. Users who prefer long-term stability and support or have specific compatibility requirements may find other CentOS replacement options better suited to their needs.

Overall, Fedora is an excellent choice for programmers and individuals who enjoy working with cutting-edge technologies. Its frequent updates, extensive software library, and strong community support make it a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich Linux distribution.

Is CentOS still relevant?

With the recent discontinuation of CentOS Linux, many users are questioning the relevance of the operating system. CentOS has been a popular choice for its stability, security, and long-term support, but the shift to CentOS Stream has raised concerns about its future. CentOS Stream is not considered a direct replacement for CentOS Linux, and its rolling release model may not suit all users’ needs for long-term stability and support.

As a result, many users are exploring alternative distributions that can provide the features and benefits they require. Some of the top CentOS replacement options include Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, and Fedora. Each of these distributions offers its own unique features and strengths to cater to different user preferences and business needs.

To make an informed decision about the best CentOS replacement, users should consider their specific requirements and goals. Factors to consider include performance, reliability, security, support, compatibility with existing systems, and pricing. By evaluating these factors and exploring the available alternatives, users can find a suitable replacement that aligns with their needs and ensures continued productivity.

Ultimately, the relevance of CentOS in the current landscape depends on individual user requirements and priorities. While CentOS Stream may offer some advantages, users seeking long-term stability and support should carefully evaluate their options and consider alternative distributions that can provide the necessary features and assurances.

Distribution	Features	Stability	Support	Compatibility	Pricing
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)	Advanced security, stability, wide range of features	High	Commercial support available	Built on CentOS source code	Starting at $179
Oracle Linux	Compatible with RHEL, advanced performance, reliability, built-in development tools	High	Free and paid support available	Compatible with RHEL packages	Free and paid versions
Rocky Linux	Community-driven CentOS fork, stability, compatibility with RHEL	High	Community support	Compatible with RHEL packages	Free and community-supported
AlmaLinux	Seamless transition from CentOS, stability, compatibility with RHEL packages	High	Community support	Compatible with RHEL packages	Free and community-supported
Fedora	Cutting-edge features, support for latest technologies, rolling release distribution	Medium	Community support	Not based on CentOS	Free and community-supported

Will there be a CentOS 9?

With the recent changes to CentOS, users may be wondering about the possibility of a CentOS 9 release. However, as of now, there are no plans for a CentOS 9. The focus has shifted to CentOS Stream, which offers a rolling release model that provides continuous updates and improvements. While CentOS Stream is not considered a replacement for CentOS Linux, it offers a different development approach.

CentOS Stream allows users to get involved in the development process, providing feedback and contributing to the future of the operating system. This new direction aims to enhance collaboration and ensure that CentOS remains in line with the latest advancements in the industry.

For those seeking alternative distributions, there are several options available, including Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, and Fedora. Each of these distributions offers unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences. It’s important to evaluate your requirements and choose the CentOS replacement that best fits your business needs and goals.

As the Linux landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay informed and explore the alternatives. Whether it’s embracing CentOS Stream or migrating to a different distribution, understanding the future of CentOS and making informed decisions will ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted operations.

Is CentOS good in 2023?

As we approach 2023, the future of CentOS remains uncertain with the introduction of CentOS Stream. CentOS Stream is not considered a direct replacement for CentOS Linux, and users are left evaluating alternative distributions for long-term stability and support. It is important to consider the current state of CentOS and explore alternative options that meet your specific needs.

While CentOS has been a popular choice for many years, Red Hat’s decision to shift its focus towards CentOS Stream has raised concerns among users. CentOS Stream, with its rolling release model, offers more frequent updates and a closer alignment with upstream development. However, it may not provide the same level of stability and long-term support as CentOS Linux.

Given this uncertainty, users are advised to consider alternative distributions that offer a solid foundation for their operating system needs. Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, and Fedora are among the top contenders in the CentOS replacement landscape. Each distribution has its own unique features, benefits, and support offerings that cater to different use cases.

Ultimately, the decision of whether CentOS is good in 2023 depends on your specific requirements and priorities. It is crucial to thoroughly evaluate the available options, considering factors such as stability, support, compatibility, and community involvement. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that ensures a reliable and sustainable operating system for your business.

What is the future of CentOS?

The future of CentOS has undergone a significant change with the introduction of CentOS Stream. While CentOS Stream is not intended to replace CentOS Linux, it offers a rolling release model that provides users with access to the latest software updates and features. This shift in focus has raised questions about the long-term future of CentOS as a stable and reliable operating system.

Users who value long-term stability and support may want to explore alternative distributions that prioritize these aspects. Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, and Fedora are among the top choices for CentOS replacement. Each distribution offers its own unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences.

When considering a CentOS replacement, it is crucial for users to evaluate their specific requirements and goals. Factors such as performance, compatibility with existing systems and software, security, community support, and pricing should all be taken into consideration. By carefully assessing these factors, users can make an informed decision about which CentOS replacement option best aligns with their business needs.

CentOS Replacement Considerations

In addition to the technical aspects mentioned above, there are several other considerations to keep in mind when choosing a CentOS replacement:

• Migration: Determine the ease and compatibility of migrating existing CentOS systems and applications to the new distribution.
• Long-Term Support: Evaluate the longevity and commitment of the distribution’s development team to providing ongoing support and updates.
• Community: Consider the size and activity of the distribution’s user community, as a robust community can offer valuable resources and assistance.
• Documentation: Look for comprehensive and up-to-date documentation to aid in installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
• Vendor Support: For organizations seeking additional support or tailored solutions, consider the availability and cost of vendor support options.

“The future of CentOS is evolving with the introduction of CentOS Stream. While CentOS Stream is not considered a replacement for CentOS Linux, it offers a rolling release model. Users interested in long-term stability and support should explore alternative distributions.” – CentOS Replacement Guide

Conclusion

As the CentOS Linux distribution comes to an end, users are left searching for suitable alternatives. Thankfully, there are several compelling options to consider. Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, and Fedora are all viable replacements, each catering to different needs and preferences.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux is an excellent choice for large enterprises, offering advanced security, stability, and support. However, it is a commercial product with pricing starting at $179. Oracle Linux, on the other hand, is highly recommended for IT and software development companies due to its compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux and advanced performance. It offers both free and paid versions.

If you’re a die-hard CentOS fan, Rocky Linux is the ideal replacement. Developed by the original founder of CentOS, it aims to provide stability and reliability while maintaining compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. For those familiar with CentOS, AlmaLinux offers a seamless transition, providing stability, compatibility, and a strong community of users and developers. And if you’re a programmer or prefer a rolling release distribution, Fedora is a popular choice with cutting-edge features and support for the latest technologies.

When choosing a CentOS replacement, it is crucial to evaluate your business needs and goals. Consider factors such as performance, security, support, compatibility, and pricing. With the right alternative, you can ensure long-term stability and support for your operating system.