Home » Security Bloggers Network » CentOS vs Ubuntu: Enterprise Linux Comparison

CentOS vs Ubuntu: Enterprise Linux Comparison

by Rohan Timalsina on October 4, 2024

The choice between CentOS vs Ubuntu depends on your specific needs: stability, support, security, and software ecosystem.
While Ubuntu receives official support from Canonical, the last supported version of CentOS Linux, CentOS 7, reached end of life on June 30, 2024.
TuxCare offers Extended Lifecycle Support for CentOS 6, 7, and 8, ensuring the continued security and stability of your CentOS Linux deployments.

With the end of life for CentOS 7, many organizations are faced with the decision of choosing a suitable replacement. Ubuntu is a popular option, but is it the right fit? Both distributions have unique strengths, histories, and use cases that make them suitable for different needs. In this article, we will discuss the CentOS vs Ubuntu debate, comparing their features, support, security, package management, and use cases.

Overview of the CentOS vs Ubuntu Debate

CentOS is a free and open-source Linux distribution derived from Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). Known for its stability and long-term support, CentOS has been a go-to choice for enterprises and developers seeking a robust server environment without the costs associated with RHEL. However, the recent shift to CentOS Stream, which serves as the upstream development platform for RHEL, has altered its traditional use case, pushing some users towards other alternatives.

Ubuntu, developed by Canonical, is a popular Linux distribution based on Debian. It comes in two main versions: Ubuntu Desktop and Ubuntu Server. Known for its user friendliness, frequent updates, and extensive community support, Ubuntu has become a preferred choice for developers, system administrators, and enterprises alike. The server version is particularly favored for cloud environments, web hosting, and various enterprise applications.

CentOS vs Ubuntu: In-Depth Comparison

When choosing between CentOS vs Ubuntu, these six factors are crucial.

Release and Update Cycles

Historically, CentOS followed RHEL’s update cycle, providing periodic updates and security patches without rushing newer software versions. With the shift to CentOS Stream, updates now arrive faster but are not as rigorously tested as before. This approach may not be suitable for environments where ultra-stable releases are crucial.

Ubuntu releases a new version every six months, with LTS releases every two years. This means predictable expectations for updates and support durations, allowing businesses to plan upgrades accordingly.

Security

CentOS benefited from its close relationship with RHEL, inheriting its security updates and patches. Traditionally, CentOS Linux versions have been supported for around ten years, making it a compelling choice for enterprises that require stability without frequent upgrades. However, CentOS Stream, the rolling-release model replacing traditional CentOS, now tracks ahead of RHEL, which may impact predictability and support timelines.

Ubuntu provides LTS versions that are supported for five years, with optional extended support available for up to ten years through Canonical’s paid services. Although this is shorter than CentOS’s previous support cycles, it provides a robust and reliable security framework. Ubuntu’s frequent security updates are another plus, offering prompt fixes to vulnerabilities.

Support

While Ubuntu offers official support through Canonical, the last supported version of CentOS Linux, CentOS 7, reached end of life on June 30, 2024. However, third-party vendors like TuxCare provide Extended Lifecycle Support (ELS) for older CentOS versions. This means you can continue to receive critical security updates and bug fixes, ensuring the continued security and stability of your CentOS Linux deployments. By partnering with TuxCare, you can avoid the risks and challenges associated with patching in-house or migrating to a new distribution.

Package Management

CentOS and Ubuntu have different package management systems. CentOS uses RPM packages, managed by the rpm command and the user-friendly yum (or dnf in CentOS 8) tool.

Ubuntu, on the other hand, utilizes DEB packages, handled by the apt command. Both systems streamline package interactions, reducing the need for direct use of underlying tools.

Cost Considerations

CentOS itself is free, but many enterprises may need to consider the indirect costs of acquiring commercial support through RHEL or alternatives. With the move to CentOS Stream, some businesses may also consider the costs associated with potential disruptions or the need to switch to a different distribution.

Ubuntu is free to use, with commercial support options available directly through Canonical. The clear pricing and support model can be beneficial for enterprises looking to plan their IT budgets precisely.

Cloud and Containerization

CentOS integrates well with traditional server environments and is commonly used in virtual machines and on-premise data centers. It supports containerization tools like Docker and Kubernetes, making it suitable for hybrid environments. However, its slower update cycle may limit access to the latest containerization features compared to Ubuntu.

Ubuntu has become a dominant force in the cloud, with strong integrations with major cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. It is also a preferred choice for containerized applications, especially in DevOps environments, thanks to its native support for the latest versions of Docker, Kubernetes, and other container tools.

CentOS vs Ubuntu: Use Cases

Server Administration

Often found in enterprise settings, CentOS is ideal for web servers, database servers, and any application requiring a stable and reliable environment. Its stability, long-term support, and close alignment with RHEL make it well-suited for critical infrastructure.

Ubuntu, while also capable of handling server workloads, shines in cloud infrastructure, virtualization, and DevOps environments. Its compatibility with a wide range of cloud platforms and easy integration with automation tools like Ansible makes it a favorite for DevOps.

Desktop Use

While CentOS can be used as a desktop OS, it’s less commonly chosen for this purpose. Its focus on stability and server administration might not provide the same level of polish and user-friendliness compared to Ubuntu.

In contrast, Ubuntu is tailored for desktop users. It provides a more intuitive interface, a wider range of applications, and seamless integration with popular desktop software.

Final Thoughts

CentOS Stream is a strong option for enterprises familiar with RHEL who want a more dynamic and modern approach without abandoning the RHEL ecosystem. Ubuntu, with its wide-ranging support, frequent updates, and adaptability, is ideal for those seeking a cutting-edge yet reliable distribution for both server and desktop use. By carefully considering the key features and use cases of CentOS vs Ubuntu, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your requirements and goals.

Are you still running outdated CentOS and Ubuntu versions which have reached their end-of-life (EOL) dates? Without continued security updates, your systems are at risk of being exploited by malicious actors.

TuxCare’s Extended Lifecycle Support offers ongoing support and security updates for Ubuntu 16.04, Ubuntu 18.04, CentOS 6, CentOS 7, CentOS 8, and CentOS Stream 8. By extending support for up to four years beyond the EOL date, TuxCare can help you maintain a secure and stable environment.