CentOS Successor: What can Rocky Linux?

Since the classic CentOS was retired, users and providers have been looking for an optimal alternative as a CentOS successor. The operating system Rocky Linux, based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux, is intended to serve as a replacement.

Rocky Linux - what does it mean?

This is a free distribution for Linux, which is HPC-capable. This open-source version is particularly well suited for desktop and server applications. This operating system is binary-compatible with the commercial RHEL (Red Hat Enterprise Linux) and is unofficially considered a CentOS successor. Rocky Linux provides a user-friendly, stable solution for both private and commercial server environments, managed by the Rocky Enterprise Software Foundation, and is suitable for a variety of different use cases.

How it all began...

The end of CentOS support necessitated the introduction of a new Linux distribution. Starting in 2021, instead of the binary-compatible, open fork of RHEL including CentOS Stream, there would only be a rolling release. This release version was expected to include numerous updates. However, some of the necessary security tools were missing for the CentOS successor. Primarily, CentOS Stream still serves as a testing ground for optional innovations. Some of these innovations may eventually lead to a commercial distribution that will be released at a later date. At this stage of development, users faced a gap that was to be filled by two new operating systems.

Initially, AlmaLinux was introduced, followed by the first version of Rocky Linux in 2021. Released on 21.06.2021 in version 8.4, this new variant is spearheaded by CentOS co-founder Gregory Kurtzer. The high version number is based on the naming convention for RHEL, of which Rocky Linux is a clone. This clone is also binary-compatible and has already received support from numerous financially strong sponsors. However, the future of this Linux variant depends on how well it is received by former users of CentOS VPS hosting and CentOS Dedicated Servers. Nevertheless, there are already promising trends emerging.

For more information on the differences between the various Linux distributions, you can also refer to the article: Best Linux for Servers: Which Distributions Are Suitable?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Rocky Linux

Unfortunately, this Linux variant has not been active long enough to fully evaluate all its pros and cons. Some aspects will only become apparent at a later stage. However, the first few months have already shown that the operating system has the potential to be a successor to CentOS. Therefore, taking a closer look at the features, as well as the pros and cons of this Linux variant, is worthwhile.

Overview of Advantages

• The team behind Rocky Linux ensures the necessary acceptance, as they are co-founders of CentOS and therefore have the potential to create a worthy successor to CentOS.
• Some of the advantages of CentOS are also prominent in this Linux version. The focus is on a smoothly functioning operating system for servers, ensuring stability.
• The compatibility of Rocky Linux makes it a worthwhile alternative. The system, which is binary-compatible with Red Hat Enterprise, allows for easy migration from CentOS, Alma Linux, and other distributions using a tool.
• Cloud-based applications and container images can be easily deployed.
• As a successor to CentOS, Rocky Linux also continues the open-source ethos. If a similarly dedicated, large community forms as with its predecessor, diligent security management, seamless documentation, and regular updates and fixes are all achievable.

Disadvantages of Rocky Linux

• Naturally, for newcomers to operating systems, there is little experience. Detailed documentation and a conclusive evaluation are therefore not yet possible. However, especially for businesses, the assurance that the operating system functions smoothly is crucial.
• Another drawback is similar. The operating system is still in its early stages, even though plans are already being made for the future. The frequency of updates being developed depends on the level of community engagement and financial support. Some larger companies are currently acting as sponsors. However, it is uncertain how long this support will be maintained.
• New applications always take time to become available. Like CentOS, the CentOS successor Rocky Linux also runs very stably on any server. However, for users who prefer to always have the latest operating system, CentOS Stream may be a better choice, as it offers rolling releases and frequent updates. In comparison, Rocky Linux progresses at a slower pace. The system is more suitable for users who value stability.

Tip: Find offers for suitable Rocky Linux VPS hosting or Rocky Linux Dedicated Server, as well as Rocky Linux Cloud Server in comparison.

Who is the Rocky Linux operating system suitable for?

The target audience for Rocky Linux can be well defined. Private users and companies looking for a user-friendly, reliable, and free operating system solution for Linux-based servers may find joy in the CentOS successor. Rocky Linux is among the recommended Linux server distributions, as all key functions such as cloud, enterprise, hyperscale, and high-performance computing have been integrated. In particular, businesses should consider using this RHEL clone. Users will definitely get an equivalent, binary-compatible, and freely available alternative.

Our article is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from external sources.

Sources & further links on the topic:
https://rockylinux.org/ (official Rocky Linux website)
https://distrowatch.com/table.php?distribution=rocky (Rocky Linux on distrowatch.com)
https://almalinux.org/ (official AlmaLinux website)
https://www.centos.org/ (official website of the CentOS project)

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Gerd Altmann on Pixabay