How to Find the Best Linux Distro for Your Organization

“What’s the best Linux distro?”

A better question to ask: “Which Linux distro can meet my business’s needs now and as we scale?”

Now that CentOS Linux has reached end of life, the playing field has widened, with several viable alternatives. This blog gives an overview of the post-CentOS EOL Linux landscape, comparing the most popular Enterprise Linux distributions and highlighting key differentiators. As you read, keep in mind your own team’s bandwidth and expertise with managing Linux infrastructure as you're evaluating factors like cost, stability, and security.

As those in the process of migrating off CentOS know all too well, longevity is important, too. Confidence in the project’s direction, the strength of the community, governance model (i.e. how much control a for-profit corporation has) — these are all considerations that could (and should) influence which open source Linux distro is the right fit for your organization.

Types of Open Source Linux Distributions 

Linux distros are a combination of the open source Linux kernel and a suite of supporting software that facilitates the development and operation of applications. Open source communities make decisions about which packages to include based on the use cases they want to prioritize. A Linux distribution designed for desktop, for example, might include tools like media players and UI customizability features. Enterprise Linux distros, on the other hand, focus more on security, stability, and speed to optimize performance for mission-critical applications. 

There are a few different ways to categorize open source Linux distros. You can bucket them according to who manages the project (a community or a commercial entity), the release model (rolling or fixed), or the upstream source (e.g. Fedora, Debian).  

Community vs. Commercial

The difference between community vs. commercial open source Linux distributions is that community-backed Linux distributions are free to use and supported by a community made up of individual contributors. These volunteers dedicate time and expertise to maintain the project and commit to releasing security updates, bug fixes, and new versions.

Commercial Enterprise Linux distributions are sold by software vendors who build their product from open source components and packages and require a paid subscription. The distro itself is functionally identical to the community version, but users have access to technical support, and often some proprietary enterprise features/tooling.

Rolling Release vs. Fixed Release

Rolling release means that updates and new features are continuously and incrementally released instead of bundled into versions that are released on a fixed schedule. Frequent updates to the Linux kernel, libraries, utilities, or any package are released as soon as they are ready without waiting for a defined release date. Typically, rolling release Linux distros do not require users to perform large-scale version upgrades because of this “steady drip” of updates. Issues, bugs, and vulnerabilities can be identified and resolved more rapidly compared to fixed, or regular, release distros.

Rolling release distros appeal to those who prioritize having the latest software and features over stability. However, they require users to stay proactive in system maintenance and be prepared to address issues that arise due to the constant stream of updates. Rolling release models can often lead to conflicts between different software versions as no testing is done to validate that different software interoperates correctly; sometimes new features in a new package release can also lead to subtle behavior differences that cause application breakage. As such, many organizations prefer fixed release models for their business critical applications.

Upstream Source

There are distros derived from Fedora, RHEL (which itself comes from Fedora), Debian, SUSE, and more. Each ecosystem has strengths, and preference here might come down to what your team is accustomed to and other considerations (for instance, if you are already an Oracle customer, Oracle Linux might make more sense than if you are not). 

Now let’s take a closer look at some of the distributions themselves, grouping them by their upstream source and starting with Fedora. 

Note: Asterisks denote that the distribution is currently supported by OpenLogic. 

Fedora and RHEL-Based Linux Distros

Fedora*

Fedora is a popular, community-backed Linux distro known for its emphasis on new features and technologies, and open source collaboration. It aims to provide a platform for both desktop and server users, offering the latest software while maintaining a balance between innovation and stability. Fedora users appreciate staying on the forefront of technology, contributing to open source projects, and experimenting with the latest software innovations. Fedora typically releases two new versions a year, one in the spring and one in the fall. 

CentOS Stream*

CentOS Stream is referred to as the “rolling preview” on which RHEL releases are based. It is the bridge between Fedora and RHEL, using the same source code Red Hat uses to produce the next version of RHEL. The current version is CentOS Stream 10 and precedes RHEL 10 (and downstream RHEL distros like Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux).  

Picking CentOS Stream comes down to your preferences for your overall Linux ecosystem. Everything that you expect inside a RHEL/CentOS ecosystem, such as package manager and virtualization options, will still be available to you in Stream, and you’ll receive bug fixes and security patches on a faster schedule than on CentOS Linux. If you’re on the fence about the rolling release route and not sure your organization is ready, this CentOS Stream migration checklist is a good resource. 

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)

RHEL is a well-established commercial Enterprise Linux distro known for its stability, long-term support, and comprehensive ecosystem. It offers various editions tailored for different workloads and environments, such as servers, cloud, and container deployments. RHEL is built off of snapshots of CentOS Stream, freezing all software versions to those in the snapshot, and only applying security fixes going forward from that release version. This is what gives it stability and security.

Red Hat, now owned by IBM, provides support for RHEL customers, but the license cost and annual fees may be prohibitively expensive for some organizations. As with any commercial software, there is a greater risk of vendor lock-in as well. 

CentOS Linux (Discontinued)*

Much to the community’s surprise (and dismay), CentOS 8 was prematurely sunsetted in 2021 just two years after its release and CentOS 7 reached end of life in 2024. Red Hat, who then controlled the project, announced the end of CentOS Linux as part of their decision to focus more on CentOS Stream. This led to the creation of new distros derived from the RHEL source code, most notably Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux, to replace CentOS Linux. 

Migrating and decommissioning environments can take months (or even years), so CentOS long-term support is one option for businesses that need more time to evaluate other distros and transition their EOL CentOS deployments. 

Rocky Linux*

Rocky Linux is a community-supported Linux distro created by one of the founders of CentOS and one of the most popular CentOS alternatives. Promising bug-for-bug compatibility with RHEL, Rocky Linux aims to provide a stable, reliable, and compatible platform for organizations and users who were previously relying on CentOS for their server infrastructure.

Related Blog >> Comparing Rocky Linux vs. RHEL

AlmaLinux*

Like Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux is a community-backed, open source Linux distro launched in response to the CentOS Linux project being discontinued. AlmaLinux is binary-compatible with RHEL, meaning that applications will run on AlmaLinux as seamlessly as in RHEL.

Oracle Linux*

Oracle Linux is packaged and distributed by Oracle, and is another binary-compatible rebuild of RHEL’s RPMs. Oracle Linux is tested and optimized to work well with Oracle's other software offerings, making it a suitable choice for running Oracle databases and other application workloads. Some worry that eventually Oracle might start charging for Oracle Linux (like they did with OracleJDK in 2019), but as of now, it is free — and at a price point similar to RHEL, you can purchase SLA-backed commercial support. 

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Debian-Based Linux Distributions

Debian Linux*

Debian is known for its commitment to open source principles, stability, and extensive package management system. It serves as the foundation for various other Linux distros such as Ubuntu and Linux Mint. Debian is widely used in both desktop and server environments. It is a popular choice for users seeking a reliable and customizable Linux distro for a wide range of applications and use cases, including embedded systems.

Debian Testing

Debian also has a testing branch, similar to a beta version, which is an intermediary stage between Debian's unstable and stable branches. The testing branch is intended for users who want a balance between access to newer software and a relatively stable system. Debian Testing gets new features and fixes before the stable Debian release so there might be issues to troubleshoot in exchange for access to the latest and greatest features, some of which make their way into the stable Debian release. 

Ubuntu Community Edition*

Often referred to as simply "Ubuntu," this distro is widely used due to its user-friendly experience, robust software ecosystem, and active community support. It is a solid choice for both desktop and server Linux, and enterprise use. Like Debian, Ubuntu also uses the apt ecosystem for package management and many AI-related packages are included in the distro.

Ubuntu Pro

Ubuntu Pro is the commercialized version of Ubuntu known for its ease of use, regular updates, and compatibility with cloud environments. There are versions optimized for different environments, such as Ubuntu Desktop, Ubuntu Server, Ubuntu for IoT, and Ubuntu Cloud. Ubuntu attracts front-end developers with easy-to-use features and a slew of programming resources, including AI libraries. 

Linux Mint

Linux Mint strives to provide a stable, user-friendly experience for both Linux newcomers and experienced users. It is based on Ubuntu and Debian, building upon their foundations while adding additional features and design elements. Linux Mint emphasizes convenience and provides a traditional desktop experience with a lot of customization options. It also was designed to help Windows users seamlessly transition to a Linux OS. 

SUSE Distributions

OpenSUSE Leap*

OpenSUSE Leap is a community-driven distro that combines the stability of a fixed release model with the availability of up-to-date software packages. It provides a reliable and user-friendly operating system for both desktop and server environments. OpenSUSE is generally considered to be stable for production use, and those familiar with the SLES, SUSE, and Slackware ecosystem will feel comfortable in this environment. OpenSUSE focuses on deployment simplicity, user-friendly toolchain, and cloud-readiness.

OpenSUSE Tumbleweed*

Tumbleweed is the OpenSUSE community’s rolling release distro. Just as in CentOS Stream, bug fixes and security patches come earlier than in OpenSUSE Leap, the regular release distro, but there also could be some features that are not quite ready for primetime. Tumbleweed supports a wide range of desktop environments, software libraries, and tools. 

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES)

SLES is the commercial counterpart to the OpenSUSE Linux distros and is backed by SUSE, a German-based multinational enterprise. It is an enterprise-focused distribution with a strong emphasis on reliability, scalability, and high-performance computing. It offers features like Systemd, Btrfs, and containers support, making it suitable for various server and virtual environments. 

Other Open Source Linux Distributions

Arch Linux

Arch Linux is a rolling, lightweight Linux distro that is highly customizable and emphasizes simplicity, minimalism, and a DIY approach. It is a better fit for experienced Linux users who want to build a tailored and efficient OS environment according to their specific needs. Its rolling release model provides continuous updates to the latest software packages and features without the need for major version upgrades. Arch Linux is popular among developers and Linux enthusiasts (aka “power users”) who enjoy experimenting with and fine-tuning their Linux system.

Alpine Linux

Alpine Linux is a security-oriented lightweight Linux distro designed for resource efficiency and containerization. It is known for its small footprint, speed, and focus on security measures. Alpine Linux is often used in scenarios where size and security are critical, such as in containers, IoT devices, and embedded systems. Alpine Linux is particularly suitable for scenarios where fast boot times, small memory usage, and strong security are required.

Amazon Linux

Amazon Linux is AWS’s Linux distro intended for use in Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud environments (EC2). It is offered as pre-configured Amazon Machines Images (AMI) ready to use in AWS. Originally built from RHEL, the distro is now derived from CentOS Stream, and the source code is publicly available and distributed under open source licenses. 

Final Thoughts

Hopefully it is clear by now that choosing the best Linux distro for your organization will likely take some time and research. Considering what each offering can help your business achieve, and where you might find friction in implementation is key to succeeding with your next open source Linux distro. Make sure you think about intended use cases, the skills required, and learning curve. Tooling (such as package management) is important to evaluate, along with ecosystem, compatibility, and vendor lock-in risk. 

One way to avoid vendor lock-in but still get the security and support you need is to partner with a third party like OpenLogic. Our Enterprise Linux support is guaranteed by SLAs and every ticket is handled by an Enterprise Architect with at least 15 years of Linux experience. We also offer migration services – from consulting to executing the migration itself. 

Editor's Note: This blog was originally published in January 2021. It was updated in February 2025 to reflect changes in the open source Enterprise Linux landscape.

Additional Resources

• Video - CentOS 7 Migration Tips
• Solution - CentOS Long-Term Support (LTS)
• Blog - How to Plan a Successful Linux Migration
• White Paper - Decision Maker's Guide to Enterprise Linux
• Blog - AlmaLinux vs. Rocky Linux: Exploring the Key Differences
• Blog - Comparing CentOS Alternatives
• Blog - 5 Reasons Why Companies Choose OpenLogic for OSS Support