Best Linux for Server: Which Distributions are Suitable?

Linux has established itself as a popular choice for operating systems in the server sector over the years. Due to the variety of different distributions, each bringing its own unique features and advantages, choosing the right variant can often be a challenge.

This post provides an overview of the best Linux distributions for servers and aims to highlight the advantages of each option to simplify the decision-making process.

Why is Linux so popular as a server operating system?

Irrespective of the chosen distribution, Linux as a server operating system can generally score points with its open-source nature, stability, security, and flexibility, further supported by an active community and a rich software ecosystem.

Open Source and License-Free

Linux is open source, meaning its source codes are freely accessible and modifiable. This allows companies and developers to customize the system according to their specific needs. Additionally, unlike proprietary operating systems, no license fees are incurred, reducing costs for businesses.

Stability and Reliability

Linux Servers are known for their high reliability and long uptime. They can often run for months or even years without a restart. Many critical web infrastructures rely on Linux because it remains stable even under heavy loads.

Security

Linux benefits from a strong security model based on user permissions and isolation. The active and large community ensures regular security updates. Additionally, the transparency of open-source code allows for quicker identification and resolution of security vulnerabilities by the community.

Flexibility

Linux can run on a variety of hardware platforms, from small Raspberry Pi systems to Bare Metal Servers to mainframes. It is also easily configurable for various applications, from web servers to databases to cloud services.

Performance

Linux is highly optimizable. System administrators can remove unwanted services and applications to maximize system performance. This is particularly useful for specialized server environments like database servers.

Rich Software Ecosystem

The package managers integrated into many Linux distributions allow for easy installation and management of software packages. There is a vast library of applications and utilities available for Linux, often for free.

Community and Support

Linux has the backing of a large and active community. This not only means regular updates and patches but also access to a wide range of resources, tools, and forums for support and knowledge sharing. Additionally, many distributions offer professional support for businesses.

Tip: Also, learn about the differences between BSD vs. Linux as Server Operating Systems

Linux for Servers: Statistical Distribution

Most servers on the internet use a Unix operating system. Linux, as a variant of Unix, is among the most popular operating systems. The information service w3techs.com always provides current statistics on the distribution of specific technologies on the web. Here, you can also find statistical distribution data on Linux as a server operating system.

According to the latest data from June 2024, the distribution looks as follows:

Ubuntu holds the top spot with a share of 24.4%. Debian takes second place with a share of 13.3%, while CentOS secures the third spot with a 5.4% share. These three major Linux distributions dominate the server market share in the UK. On the other hand, all other distributions have shares below 1%.

Linux for Servers: Distribution Evolution Over Several Years

According to the latest data from June 2024, the distribution evolution is as follows:

After a period of strong growth until 2021, the most popular distribution, Ubuntu, has experienced a significant decline over the past few years. Similarly, the second most popular distribution, Debian, has shown a slight but continuous decrease in its share.

Best Linux for Servers: Overview of Distributions

Here is an overview of the most popular Linux distributions used on servers:

Debian

As one of the oldest and most widely used Linux distributions, Debian places great emphasis on free software and the open-source approach. Known for its remarkable stability and reliability, Debian is often the top choice for productive server environments. With extensive software repositories and a purely community-led development, Debian stands out for its universality and adaptability compared to many other distributions.

Pro Debian:

• Stability and Reliability: Debian is particularly known for its stability in its Stable version and is often used in critical production environments.
• Free Software Philosophy: By adhering to the Debian Free Software Guidelines, Debian ensures that users receive a distribution with a focus on free software.
• Extensive Software Library: With over 59,000 packages in the official repositories, Debian offers a wide range of applications and utilities.

Cons of Debian:

• Not Always Up-to-Date: Emphasizing stability means that Debian Stable does not always contain the latest software versions, which can be problematic for some users and applications.
• Steeper Learning Curve for Beginners: Although extremely stable, Debian is seen as a challenge for newcomers due to its sometimes complex configuration.
• Longer Release Cycles: The irregular and often long periods between stable releases can make the software seem outdated towards the end of a release cycle.

Conclusion:

Debian is ideal for experienced users and administrators who value stability, freedom, and a wide selection of software in productive server environments.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu, a distribution based on Debian, is known for its user-friendliness and accessibility, making it a popular choice for Linux beginners. With regular release cycles and professional support from Canonical, it is suitable not only for desktop users but also for server environments. Additionally, Ubuntu has an extensive software repository complemented by PPAs (Personal Package Archives), allowing for a wide selection of software and customization.

Pros of Ubuntu:

• User-Friendliness: Ubuntu offers an intuitive user interface and simple installation processes, making it particularly attractive for Linux beginners.
• Support and Documentation: With support from Canonical and a large community, there are extensive documentations, forums, and commercial support options available.
• Regular Releases: With a fixed six-month cycle for new releases and LTS (Long Term Support) versions every two years, users can benefit from predictable updates and long-term support.

Cons of Ubuntu:

• System Requirements and Performance: While Linux is generally known for its lightweight nature, newer versions of Ubuntu, especially those with the GNOME desktop, consume more resources compared to other slim distributions.
• Proprietary Software: Unlike Debian, Ubuntu includes some proprietary drivers and software by default, which can be viewed critically by purists.
• Altered Default Configurations: Ubuntu adjusts some default configurations and system settings from Debian, which can lead to incompatibilities or unexpected behavior, especially for users familiar with Debian.

Conclusion:

Ubuntu is particularly suitable for beginners and businesses looking for a user-friendly, well-supported Linux distribution with long-term support and a wide selection of software.

Gentoo

Gentoo is a source-based Linux distribution that offers advanced users the ability to optimize software for their specific hardware and compile only the desired features. Through the Portage system, users can exert fine-grained control over software packages and system configurations. Gentoo is characterized by its flexibility, performance optimization, and the deep technical involvement it demands from its users.

Pros of Gentoo:

• Performance: By compiling software specifically for their own server, users can optimize the system for maximum performance and efficiency.
• Customizability: The Portage system allows users to precisely determine which features and dependencies should be included in software packages.
• Up-to-dateness: Thanks to the rolling-release model, users can always obtain the latest software versions without having to reinstall the entire system.

Cons of Gentoo:

• Installation and Maintenance Effort: The constant compilation of software is time-consuming, and setting up and maintaining Gentoo requires a deep technical understanding.
• Steep Learning Curve: Gentoo can be overwhelming for beginners as it requires more manual work and technical knowledge than many other distributions.
• Potential Stability Issues: While Gentoo is flexible, the constant updates and individual optimizations, if not carefully executed, can lead to system instability or incompatibilities.

Conclusion:

Gentoo is ideal for technically savvy users who have a deep understanding of Linux and appreciate complete control and individual optimization of their server system.

Fedora

Fedora, a community-driven project sponsored by Red Hat, serves as a testing ground for new technologies that could later be integrated into Red Hat Enterprise Linux. It offers users frequent releases with the latest innovations and technologies in the open-source domain. Fedora places a strong emphasis on free software but also delivers modern desktop environments and development tools for users and developers.

Pros of Fedora:

• Timeliness: Fedora has a short release cycle, ensuring users always have access to the latest technologies and software versions.
• Integration with Red Hat: Serving as a kind of "testing ground" for Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Fedora benefits from the support and resources of Red Hat, a leading company in the Linux field.
• Innovative: Fedora often introduces new technologies and system innovations before they are found in other distributions.

Cons of Fedora:

• Shorter release lifespan: Due to the fast release cycle, individual Fedora versions have a shorter support period, meaning users need to update more frequently.
• Potential instability: Due to its innovative nature, some of the latest features and packages may not be as stable as in distributions that prioritize stability more.
• Lack of third-party software: Compared to some other distributions, there is less easily accessible proprietary software or specialized third-party repositories in Fedora, as it strictly focuses on free software.

Conclusion:

Fedora is particularly suitable for technology enthusiasts and developers who are at the forefront of open-source innovations and also wish to benefit from Red Hat's support.

CentOS Stream

CentOS Stream is the new rolling-release version of CentOS, acting as a bridge between Fedora and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It provides a preview of future RHEL content, as changes are first introduced in Fedora, then tested in CentOS Stream, and finally stabilized in RHEL. While still offering the robustness and reliability of CentOS, CentOS Stream also allows users to test newer software and features before they appear in RHEL.

Pros of CentOS Stream:

• Preview of RHEL: CentOS Stream gives users the opportunity to test upcoming features and updates of RHEL before they are officially introduced in RHEL.
• More Up-to-Date Software: Compared to traditional CentOS, CentOS Stream provides access to newer software packages and technologies, making it ideal for those who prefer cutting-edge technology without compromising on stability.
• Feedback Opportunities: Serving as a middle ground between Fedora and RHEL, CentOS Stream offers the community the chance to provide feedback and actively shape the direction of RHEL.

Cons of CentOS Stream:

• Less Predictability: Being a rolling release, CentOS Stream may bring unforeseen issues or incompatibilities that are less common in fixed release cycles.
• Potential Instability: Although CentOS Stream is more stable than Fedora, it is still considered less stable than traditional CentOS or RHEL, especially with certain software packages or features.
• Adoption Rate: With the introduction of CentOS Stream and the end of the traditional CentOS release cycle, it is expected that some users may hesitate to adopt it as they prefer the traditional support lifecycle of the new CentOS alternatives.

Conclusion:

CentOS Stream is ideal for users and organizations seeking insight into upcoming RHEL updates and are willing to compromise between having the latest software and stability.

AlmaLinux

AlmaLinux is a community-driven, free Linux distribution created as a direct replacement for CentOS Linux after Red Hat decided to end the traditional CentOS release cycle. It is based on the sources of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) and offers a 1:1 binary compatibility with RHEL, making it a reliable choice for businesses. AlmaLinux promises long support periods, making it particularly attractive for server environments and mission-critical applications.

Pros of AlmaLinux:

• Compatibility with RHEL: AlmaLinux offers direct compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux, making the transition and compatibility easier for existing RHEL or CentOS users.
• Long-term Support: Created as a replacement for CentOS, AlmaLinux provides a stable and long-term lifecycle, ideal for servers and production-critical environments.
• Community Approach: Unlike the commercial interests sometimes behind major distributions, AlmaLinux is developed by the community for the community, leading to transparent development and decision-making.

Cons of AlmaLinux:

• Youthful Distribution: While based on proven RHEL technology, AlmaLinux is still a relatively new distribution that has not yet been widely established.
• Limited Support: Users may encounter difficulties installing certain software on AlmaLinux as it may not have been adapted for this new distribution yet.
• Competition: With other RHEL alternatives like Rocky Linux in the market, it remains to be seen which Linux distributions will ultimately establish themselves.

Conclusion:

AlmaLinux is ideal for users seeking a stable, long-term supported, and RHEL-compatible distribution, especially as an alternative to CentOS for production-critical environments.

Rocky Linux

Rocky Linux is a free Linux distribution created as a community-driven replacement for CentOS after Red Hat discontinued its traditional CentOS releases. It offers a 1:1 binary compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), making it a seamless alternative for existing RHEL and CentOS users. Developed with a focus on transparency and community involvement, Rocky Linux emphasizes stability and long-term support, especially for production-critical infrastructures.

Pros of Rocky Linux:

• Compatibility with RHEL: Rocky Linux allows users to switch from RHEL or CentOS without major adjustments.
• Long-term Support: As a CentOS alternative, Rocky Linux aims to provide a stable and long-term supported platform for mission-critical applications.
• Community Focus: Rocky Linux emphasizes community and transparency in development, leading to open and inclusive decision-making and evolution.

Cons of Rocky Linux:

• New Distribution: While based on the proven foundation of RHEL, Rocky Linux is a newer distribution that has not yet been widely adopted.
• Limited Support: Users looking to install specific software applications on Rocky Linux may encounter issues because the software may not have been officially optimized for the new distribution yet.
• Competition: With other RHEL alternatives like AlmaLinux in the market, only time will tell which Linux distributions will ultimately prevail.

Conclusion:

Rocky Linux is particularly suitable for those seeking an RHEL-compatible, community-driven distribution and value long-term support in mission-critical environments.

Arch Linux

Arch Linux is a minimalist, Rolling-Release distribution known for providing users with a slim base system that they can customize as they wish. It follows the KISS principle ("Keep It Simple, Stupid"), focusing on simplicity and clarity in its structure and approach. Arch's package manager, pacman, allows easy installations and updates, while the Arch User Repository (AUR) provides access to a vast amount of community-maintained software.

Pros of Arch Linux:

• Highly Customizable: Arch Linux offers a base system that users can expand and modify according to their preferences, allowing for maximum personalization.
• Arch User Repository (AUR): This community-driven repository provides access to a vast array of software, often available more quickly than in other distributions.
• Up-to-Date: As a rolling-release distribution, users constantly receive the latest software versions without the need for a full reinstallation.

Cons of Arch Linux:

• Complexity for Beginners: The installation and configuration process can be overwhelming for Linux newcomers as Arch requires manual configuration.
• Stability Risks: Due to its rolling-release nature and the speed at which software is updated, occasional instabilities may occur, especially if users do not update regularly.
• Time-Consuming: Setting up and maintaining Arch can be more time-consuming, especially for less experienced users, compared to distributions that offer more functionalities "out of the box."

Conclusion:

Arch Linux is ideal for experienced Linux users seeking a deeply customizable system and desiring control over every detail of their installation.

OpenSUSE

OpenSUSE is a Linux distribution popular in Germany, with two main branches: Tumbleweed, a rolling-release version for users who want constantly updated software, and Leap, a regularly updated version for stability and longevity. The distribution is known for its powerful YaST configuration tool, simplifying system management. With a dedicated community and strong enterprise roots influenced by SUSE Linux Enterprise, OpenSUSE offers a balanced mix of up-to-dateness and reliability for various use cases.

Pros of OpenSUSE:

• Two Versions: With Tumbleweed as a Rolling-Release and Leap as a stable version, users can choose between constant updates or stability based on their needs.
• YaST Tool: OpenSUSE's YaST configuration tool is one of the most advanced and user-friendly system management tools, making system configuration and management easier.
• SUSE Support: OpenSUSE benefits from its close connection to SUSE Linux Enterprise, providing the distribution with a solid foundation, financial support, and enterprise features.

Cons of OpenSUSE:

• Learning Curve: For users transitioning from other distributions, OpenSUSE may require a longer adjustment period due to its unique approach and tools, especially YaST.
• Different Package Management: OpenSUSE uses Zypper and RPM as package management tools, which differ from tools used in other popular distributions (e.g., APT in Debian-based systems), requiring users to adapt.
• Installation Size: The default installation of OpenSUSE occupies more disk space than many other distributions due to including numerous applications and utilities.

Conclusion:

OpenSUSE is particularly suitable for users seeking a balanced mix of modern features and stable performance, benefiting from a powerful management tool like YaST.

How to Choose the Best Linux Distribution for Servers?

When selecting the best Linux distribution for servers, there is no one-size-fits-all solution as it heavily depends on the user's individual requirements and preferences. Instead, it is essential to consider various factors and considerations in the selection process:

• Purpose of the Server: The type of service the server is intended to provide can influence the choice. A web server has different requirements than a database server or a file server.
• Stability vs. Up-to-dateness: While some users prefer the latest features and software versions, production-critical environments often prioritize stability above all else.
• Support and Community: An active community and good support can be crucial, especially when issues or questions arise. Some prefer distributions with commercial support, while others rely on the community.
• Security Considerations: Some distributions place particular emphasis on security features and updates. This is a key factor for security-critical applications.
• Hardware Compatibility: Not all distributions optimally support every hardware. Therefore, a distribution should be chosen that works well with the existing or planned hardware.
• User Experience and Prior Knowledge: Some Linux distributions are more user-friendly and better suited for beginners, while others that require more manual work may be more suitable for experienced users.
• Package Availability and Management: The way software packages are managed and their availability can also influence the choice. Some prefer the simplicity of apt or yum, while others appreciate the flexibility of pacman or zypper.

When looking for the best Linux for servers, it quickly becomes clear that there is no universal answer. Instead, the optimal choice heavily depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the individual user or company. Factors such as the intended use of the server, hardware compatibility, desired stability vs. up-to-dateness, and the user's experience all play a crucial role in the selection.

Therefore, it is invaluable to use test environments and conduct pilot projects before making a final decision. This approach allows for trying out different distributions in real or at least realistic scenarios, evaluating their performance, and identifying potential issues or challenges in advance. By taking this practical approach, not only is the risk of making the wrong decision reduced, but valuable insights can also be gained for the subsequent implementation and production operation.

Therefore, we recommend following this practical approach to make informed decisions based on experience when choosing the best Linux for servers.

Here in our Linux VPS Hosting comparison, you will find suitable server systems where you can extensively test your preferred Linux server distributions: