What is CentOS? Everything you need to know

A few years ago, the CentOS Linux project ceased development, requiring current users to transition to alternatives like CentOS Stream, Ubuntu, or Debian. The CentOS community will now focus on CentOS Stream. Note that CentOS Stream is a rolling release with uncertain stability and compatibility, posing risks in production environments. Key dates for CentOS Linux end-of-life are:

CentOS Linux 8: Ended software support on Dec. 31, 2021
CentOS Linux 7: Ends software support on June 30, 2024

Using unsupported CentOS versions risks security vulnerabilities due to outdated software maintenance.

If you're considering alternatives to CentOS with its upcoming end-of-life, you might wonder about the best option. Below, we compare CentOS with two other enduring Linux distributions: Ubuntu and Debian.

Let's compare Ubuntu and CentOS

• Ubuntu is derived from Debian, whereas CentOS originates from Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
• Ubuntu employs the apt-get package manager for DEB package downloads, while CentOS uses yum for RPM package installations from its central repository.
• Ubuntu benefits from a more accessible community and comprehensive documentation compared to CentOS, making problem-solving easier.
• For beginners, installing CentOS on servers may pose challenges due to the less common usage of RHEL-based desktop distributions, whereas Ubuntu desktop is known for its user-friendly nature.

Distinguishing features between CentOS and Debian

• Debian is built on the Linux Kernel, whereas CentOS is a derivative of Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
• DEB packages in Debian are managed using dpkg/APT, while CentOS employs the YUM package manager for RPM package handling.
• Debian supports a wider range of architectures, including MIPSel, MIPS64el, and s390x, whereas CentOS 7 is compatible with POWER9 and armhf/armhfp.
• Filesystem support varies; CentOS typically uses XFS by default, while Debian favors EXT4. Debian also offers support for ZFS, a feature not available in CentOS.

Choosing between CentOS, Debian, or Ubuntu depends on your specific requirements, familiarity with Linux, and desired features.

For a seamless transition from CentOS, AlmaLinux OS is a great choice as it maintains binary compatibility with RHEL and offers stability akin to CentOS.

Debian is ideal for desktop use, providing an easy-to-use and regularly updated operating system suitable for daily tasks.

Ubuntu stands out for beginners due to its extensive community support, abundant tutorials, and frequent updates, making it user-friendly and accessible even for those new to Linux. If you're already familiar with Ubuntu, transitioning to a newer version should be straightforward.