CentOS vs. Ubuntu: Differences, Use Cases, & Which One to Choose

The shift from traditional CentOS Linux to CentOS Stream — now an upstream development platform for RHEL — along with the end of life for CentOS 7, has led many organizations to seek alternative distributions. Ubuntu is a popular option, but how does it compare?

This article dives into CentOS vs. Ubuntu debate, comparing their features, support, security, package management, and use cases to help you make an informed decision.

CentOS vs Ubuntu: Key Takeaways

As CentOS Linux has reached its end of life and CentOS Stream has become the focus, a comparison of CentOS Stream vs. Ubuntu would be more appropriate. The following table highlights key differences between these two distributions.

What Is CentOS?

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 like AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux.

Pros & Cons of CentOS

CentOS Linux was widely used for its stability and long-term support, making it a reliable choice for production environments. With CentOS Stream, the focus has shifted. Instead of being a stable downstream build of RHEL, it’s now an upstream, rolling-release distribution that receives updates before RHEL. This change makes it more useful for development and testing rather than production workloads.

Pros:

1. Early Access to RHEL Features: CentOS Stream gets updates before RHEL, making it useful for developers who want to see what’s coming and test their applications accordingly.

2. Good for RHEL-Based Development: RHEL code is based on CentOS Stream at some point in time, meaning that new features or breaking changes appear on Stream first. Developers working on new applications can benefit from coding around potential issues early in the process.

3. Still Free and Open Source: Unlike RHEL, CentOS Stream remains freely available, though it no longer serves as a direct replacement for CentOS Linux.

Cons:

1. Not Ideal for Production Servers: The rolling-release model means more frequent updates, which can introduce more frequent changes that aren’t as thoroughly tested as they are in stable, long-term releases.

2. Frequent Updates Can Cause Issues: Unlike the old CentOS, which had predictable point releases, CentOS Stream updates continuously, which may lead to unexpected compatibility problems.

3. No Longer a Drop-in RHEL Alternative: Many users relied on CentOS Linux as a free RHEL clone. CentOS Stream doesn’t fill that role.

What Is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu, developed by Canonical, is a popular Linux distribution based on Debian. It comes in two main versions: Ubuntu Desktop and Ubuntu Server. Ubuntu offers two types of releases: LTS (Long-Term Support) versions, which receive updates for five years, and non-LTS releases, which offer newer features but have shorter support cycles. 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, including Ubuntu 16.04 and Ubuntu 18.04, is particularly favored for cloud environments, web hosting, and various enterprise applications.

Pros & Cons of Ubuntu

Ubuntu is known for its user-friendliness, stability, and cloud integration, but like any OS, it has trade-offs.

Pros:

1. LTS Releases Provide Long-Term Stability: Unlike rolling-release distros, Ubuntu LTS ensures a predictable, stable foundation, which is why many businesses and developers rely on it for servers, cloud deployments, and enterprise applications.

2. Strong Community and Enterprise Support: Ubuntu has one of the largest Linux communities, providing extensive documentation, forums, and troubleshooting guides. Additionally, Canonical offers paid enterprise support, making it a viable option for businesses that need professional assistance and compliance-ready Linux solutions.

3. Excellent Cloud and Container Compatibility: Ubuntu has a strong presence in cloud computing. With built-in support for Docker, Kubernetes, and OpenStack, Ubuntu is a preferred choice for containerized applications and scalable cloud infrastructure.

Cons:

1. Non-LTS Versions Have Shorter Support Cycles: Ubuntu’s standard releases (every six months) only receive nine months of updates, making them less suitable for long-term use. Users who want stability should stick to LTS releases, which provide five years of support.

2. Heavier System Requirements: Ubuntu’s default GNOME desktop and pre-installed applications make it more resource-intensive than lightweight distributions like Alpine, Arch, or Debian Minimal. For server roles, however, this may not be an issue.

3. Frequent UI and Feature Changes: Ubuntu frequently updates its UI, Snap packaging system, and default applications, which may not appeal to users who prefer a consistent experience.

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. The way Red Hat slashed support for CentOS 8 from a planned 9 years to just under 2 without any notice other than “it’s done,” effectively stopping support even before CentOS 7 support ended, left many doubtful of any long-term support commitment from the company’s Linux distributions — CentOS Stream included.

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 receives official support from 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 Endless Lifecycle Support (ELS) for end-of-life CentOS versions. This means you can continue to receive critical security updates for as long as needed, 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

Historically, CentOS Linux was a go-to choice for for web servers, database servers, and any application requiring a stable and reliable environment. However, with the shift to CentOS Stream, this is no longer the case. Organizations that need a stable RHEL alternative for production workloads often turn to Rocky Linux or AlmaLinux instead.

Meanwhile, Ubuntu continues to be widely adopted in server environments, particularly in cloud infrastructure, virtualization, and DevOps. Its predictable release cycles, LTS versions, and compatibility with automation tools like Ansible and Terraform make it a strong choice for modern deployments.

Desktop Use

While CentOS Stream can be used as a desktop OS, it’s less commonly chosen for this purpose. It 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.

Cloud Computing & Containers

CentOS Stream is used in testing and development environments but is rarely the first choice for production cloud deployments due to its rolling-release nature.

Ubuntu, on the other hand, is the most popular Linux distribution on AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. Its excellent support for containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes makes it suitable for cloud-native applications, microservices, and scalable infrastructure.

Final Thoughts & How TuxCare Can Help

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 dates? Without continued security updates, your systems are at risk of being exploited by malicious actors.

TuxCare’s Endless Lifecycle Support (ELS) 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.

CentOS vs Ubuntu: Which One Should You Choose?

CentOS Stream is best suited for those developing for RHEL or need a preview of upcoming RHEL changes. But since it follows a rolling-release model, it’s not the best choice for production servers that need stability.

Ubuntu, especially the LTS versions, is generally better for production, web hosting, DevOps, and enterprise applications. Its predictable updates and long-term support make it a reliable choice for production workloads.

For those migrating from CentOS Linux, Rocky Linux or AlmaLinux are more appropriate fits for the same role — both are free, community-driven alternatives that aim for RHEL compatibility.

Summary

Article Name

CentOS vs Ubuntu: Enterprise Linux Comparison

Description

Explore key differences in stability, security, support, and performance with CentOS vs Ubuntu for your enterprise needs.

Author

Rohan Timalsina

Publisher Name

TuxCare

Publisher Logo