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CentOS VPS: Benefits, updates, and alternatives
A CentOS VPS (Virtual Private Server) is a hosting solution that combines the benefits of virtualization with the reliability of the CentOS operating system.
CentOS, which stands for Community Enterprise Operating System, is a well-regarded Linux distribution known for stability and security. This makes it a preferred choice for both developers and businesses.
Let’s look at what CentOS is, its advantages for VPS hosting, its different versions, and how it compares to other operating systems.
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What is CentOS?
CentOS is a widely used open-source operating system based on the sources of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). Known for stability and performance, CentOS is prevalent in server environments. Committed to free and open-source software principles, CentOS offers a robust platform that can be customized to meet specific needs.
The CentOS project aims to provide a community-supported, free version of RHEL, allowing users to enjoy the same features and benefits without the associated licensing costs. This makes CentOS particularly appealing to developers, system administrators, and organizations requiring a stable environment for their applications.
When paired with a Virtual Private Server (VPS) solution, CentOS becomes even more powerful. A CentOS VPS allows users to leverage the benefits of this operating system while enjoying the flexibility and scalability of virtual environments. .
Benefits of CentOS for a VPS server
CentOS is a popular choice for virtual private servers.
One key benefit is stability: CentOS is known for its performance and reliability, making it an excellent foundation for hosting websites and applications. This stability is particularly crucial for businesses that require consistent uptime.
Another advantage of CentOS is its compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). This means users can enjoy the same features and applications available on RHEL without the associated costs, making it an attractive option for leveraging enterprise-level technology.
Cost-effectiveness is another reason many opt for CentOS VPS. With no licensing fees, users can allocate their budget towards other essential resources, such as additional storage or bandwidth, enhancing their overall hosting experience.
The strong community support for CentOS also makes it a preferred choice. Users can access resources, forums, and documentation, ensuring that assistance is readily available when needed.
Regular security updates and a focus on security features help to safeguard servers against vulnerabilities, providing peace of mind for administrators.
Furthermore, CentOS is compatible with various control panels, enabling users to manage their VPS effortlessly. The flexibility to choose from different control panels ensures that users can tailor their server management experience to their preferences.
Lastly, CentOS offers high customizability. Users can configure their environments to suit specific needs, whether it’s installing custom software or adjusting system settings, enhancing the overall functionality of the VPS.
CentOS versions
CentOS 8 marked a significant release in the CentOS ecosystem but was officially discontinued in December 2020, with its end of life (EOL) arriving in December 2021. This change surprised many users who relied on CentOS 8 for their server environments, as it had been a popular choice for its stability and robust performance. The decision to discontinue CentOS 8 was part of a strategic shift by the CentOS team to streamline their offerings and focus on a rolling-release model.
In place of CentOS 8, CentOS Stream was introduced as the successor. CentOS Stream serves as a preview of what the next minor release of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) will look like, acting as a bridge between the current stable version and the upcoming one. This means that users of CentOS Stream can expect to receive updates and features more frequently, allowing them to stay ahead of the curve in terms of software development and security patches.
While some may find this shift challenging, CentOS Stream provides an opportunity for developers and system administrators to engage with new features and improvements, ensuring their systems remain modern and efficient.
| Version | Release Date | Description | End of Life (EOL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| CentOS 2 | May 2004 | First official CentOS release, based on RHEL 2.1. | June 30, 2009 |
| CentOS 3 | March 2004 | Based on RHEL 3, introducing improved scalability and security features. | October 31, 2010 |
| CentOS 4 | March 2005 | Based on RHEL 4, featuring SELinux by default for enhanced security. | February 29, 2012 |
| CentOS 5 | April 2007 | Based on RHEL 5, adding virtualization support with Xen. | March 31, 2017 |
| CentOS 6 | July 2011 | Based on RHEL 6, introducing Systemd alternatives like Upstart before full transition. | November 30, 2020 |
| CentOS 7 | July 2014 | Based on RHEL 7, marking full adoption of Systemd and improved networking features. | June 30, 2024 |
| CentOS 8 | September 2019 | Based on RHEL 8, but controversially shifted to CentOS Stream in late 2020. | December 31, 2021 (for CentOS 8) |
| CentOS Stream 8 | December 2019 | Rolling-release version providing a preview of future RHEL updates. | May 31, 2024 |
| CentOS Stream 9 | December 2021 | Successor to CentOS Linux, continuously updated to reflect RHEL 9 development. | Ongoing |
CentOS vs Ubuntu for VPS
Ubuntu, based on Debian, is a popular open-source operating system known for its user-friendly interface and strong community support. It is widely used in cloud computing environments, making it a common choice for Virtual Private Servers (VPS).
CentOS and Ubuntu share similarities that appeal to users looking for reliable server solutions. They are both open-source and provide robust security features, regular updates, and a vast repository of software packages. Additionally, both operating systems can be tailored for various applications, whether for web hosting, development, or enterprise solutions.
However, there are key differences between CentOS and Ubuntu:
- CentOS is based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), making it more stable and suitable for enterprise environments that require long-term support and minimal changes.
- Ubuntu has a more frequent release cycle, introducing new features and updates that may appeal to developers looking for the latest technology.
- Additionally, the package management systems differ: CentOS uses YUM, while Ubuntu relies on APT, which can influence user preference based on familiarity.
Additionally, the package management systems differ:
- CentOS uses YUM.
- Ubuntu relies on APT, which can influence user preference based on familiarity.
CentOS VPS is typically best used for hosting applications in enterprise environments, where stability and support are paramount. On the other hand, Ubuntu VPS excels in scenarios requiring rapid development and deployment, such as web applications and startups looking for flexibility.
Each system has its strengths, making the choice ultimately dependent on the specific needs of your project.
| Feature | CentOS | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Base OS | Derived from RHEL (Red Hat Enterprise Linux) | Derived from Debian |
| Package manager | yum / dnf (RPM-based) | apt (Debian-based) |
| Default file system | XFS (default), ext4 supported | ext4 (default), ZFS supported |
| System management | Uses systemd (CentOS 7+), traditionally used init | Uses systemd |
| Stability vs. updates | Prioritizes stability with fewer updates | Frequent updates with newer software |
| Security | SELinux for enhanced security | AppArmor for security, easier to configure |
| Performance | Generally optimized for enterprise workloads | More optimized for desktop and cloud environments |
| Ease of use | Requires more manual setup; better for experienced users | User-friendly with extensive community support |
| Community support | Smaller, more enterprise-focused community | Larger, more general-purpose community support |
| LTS (Long-Term Support) | Typically 10 years (CentOS Linux, now replaced by CentOS Stream) | 5 years for LTS releases, 9 years with ESM |
| Release model | Previously point releases (CentOS Linux); now rolling-release (CentOS Stream) | LTS every 2 years, interim releases every 6 months |
| Compatibility | Best for RHEL-based software and enterprise use cases | Best for general applications, cloud, and development |
| Enterprise readiness | Traditionally enterprise-focused, now shifting with CentOS Stream | Widely used in cloud and general-purpose workloads |
| Default desktop environment (if GUI is installed) | GNOME (Minimal Installation by default) | GNOME (for Ubuntu Desktop) |
| Common use cases | Enterprise servers, hosting control panels (cPanel, WHM) | Web servers, cloud deployments, development environments |
Getting started with a Linux VPS
Linux is a powerful and flexible choice for VPS hosting, offering stability, security, and efficiency. CentOS, like most OS, sits on the lightweight environment to maximize server performance while allowing customization to fit specific needs.
Assess your specific use case and consider factors like ease of use, software compatibility, security needs, and long-term maintenance. If you prioritize stability and a minimalistic approach, Debian might be ideal, whereas Ubuntu offers a balance of usability and up-to-date software.
CentOS VPS FAQ
How do I check my CentOS version?
- Open a terminal window.
- Type the command cat /etc/centos-release or hostnamectl.
- This will display the current version of CentOS you are using.
Is CentOS dead?
Yes. CentOS, as it was traditionally known—a stable, downstream rebuild of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)—is effectively dead. In December 2020, Red Hat announced that CentOS Linux would be discontinued in favor of CentOS Stream, a rolling-release distribution that sits upstream of RHEL, making it less stable for production environments.
CentOS 8 reached its end of life in December 2021, and CentOS 7 was supported until June 2024. Many users have since migrated to alternatives like AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux, which continue CentOS’s original mission of providing a free, RHEL-compatible OS.
While CentOS Stream remains active, it serves a different purpose and is no longer a direct replacement for CentOS Linux.
Is CentOS Debian?
No, CentOS is not Debian—they are entirely different Linux distributions with distinct origins and purposes.
CentOS was a free, community-supported rebuild of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), using the same RPM package management system and enterprise-focused features. In contrast, Debian is an independent, community-driven Linux distribution that serves as the foundation for Ubuntu and other distros, using the APT package manager and DEB package format.
While both are popular choices for servers, CentOS was traditionally favored for enterprise environments due to its RHEL compatibility, whereas Debian is known for its stability, open governance, and extensive software repositories.
Learn more: What is a Debian VPS?
What is CentOS Stream?
CentOS Stream is a rolling-release Linux distribution that serves as an upstream, continuously updated preview of the next version of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). Unlike the traditional CentOS Linux, which was a stable, downstream rebuild of RHEL, CentOS Stream receives updates before they are incorporated into RHEL, making it less predictable and potentially less stable for production environments.
CentOS Stream is intended for developers and organizations that want early access to upcoming RHEL changes, allowing them to test and contribute to the ecosystem. While CentOS Stream remains an official Red Hat project, its shift away from CentOS Linux’s original mission has led many users to adopt alternatives like Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux for a stable, RHEL-compatible experience.
Additional resources
VPS Guide →
A complete beginner’s guide to virtual private servers, including how they works, benefits and challenges, and getting started
How to protect your VPS from DDoS attack →
9 steps to safeguarding your VPS server from falling to a distributed denial-of-service attack
What is a Debian VPS? →
Learn what it means, benefits of Debian for a VPS server, and how it compares to other distros
