Linux, a powerful operating system, gives you complete control over your servers and applications. However, you must choose the right Linux distribution as per your needs. This blog will help you compare Ubuntu vs CentOS – the two of its popular distributions.
Well, both have unique features and benefits, but they have differences too. in many ways.
In this blog, we will discuss the details of Ubuntu and CentOS. We will guide you through the core differences between the two.
Ubuntu vs CentOS – Meaning
What is Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is a user-friendly and open-source Linux distribution. It is based on Debian. It is great for both personal desktop use and server environments.
Ubuntu History
Ubuntu was first released in 2004 by Canonical Ltd. and quickly gained popularity. It has inherited a lot of features of Debian but its main focus is ease of use and regular updates. Since its launch, Ubuntu has become one of the most widely used Linux distributions for personal and server use. It has built a large and active community around it.
System Requirements for Ubuntu
Ubuntu runs smoothly on most modern hardware. For the desktop version, you need at least 2 GB of RAM and 25 GB of hard drive space. For Ubuntu’s server edition, you will need at least 1 GB of RAM and 2.5 GB of free disk space.
Ubuntu Derivatives
There are various Ubuntu derivatives such as Linux Mint, Kubuntu, Gobuntu, etc. to meet specific requirements.
Main Advantages of Ubuntu
- User-friendly interface
- Wide support community and extensive documentation
- Easy installation process
- A popular choice for beginners
- The vast repository of software packages that are easy to find and install
Main Disadvantages of Ubuntu
Ubuntu’s frequent updates can lead to instability in some cases. Also, its default settings may not prioritize security as highly as other distributions.
What is CentOS?
CentOS (Community ENTerprise Operating System) is an open-source version of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It is free and more focused on enterprise environments that need stability, security, and long-term support. Moreover, CentOS is preferred for reliable hosting servers that can run for years with stability.
CentOS History
Initially, CentOS was created in 2004 as a free alternative to Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). So, it offered the same features as RHEL with stability but without the licensing fees or associated costs of RHEL. CentOS Linux alternatives include Debian and openSUSE.
System Requirements for CentOS
CentOS has moderate system requirements. For a basic installation, CentOS requires at least 1 GB of RAM and 10 GB of free disk space. However, for production servers, it is recommended to have more resources (especially for running multiple services).
CentOS Derivatives
CentOS has a few derivatives like AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux. They were created after CentOS shifted to CentOS Stream. They offer stability with long-term support.
CentOS Stream
CentOS Stream provides a preview of the next minor RHEL release so it is a midpoint between Fedora and RHEL. It continuously receives updates and new features that are eventually rolled into RHEL.
Main Advantages of CentOS
- Enterprise-level stability
- Robust security features
- Preferred choice for business applications.
- Software running on RHEL can run on CentOS without modification due to its compatibility
Main Disadvantages of CentOS
- Lack of continuous latest software updates due to its focus on stability.
- The official repositories may lack some software packages so you may need to rely on third-party sources.
- It does not offer official commercial support so may not get immediate assistance.
Difference between Linux and Ubuntu
Below are the major differences that set Ubuntu and CentOS apart.
| Feature | Ubuntu | CentOS |
| Base System | Ubuntu is based on Debian. It is known for being user-friendly and offering a wide range of packages. | CentOS is based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) and is more enterprise-oriented. It gives long-term stability. |
| User Interface | It is beginner-friendly with a graphical user interface (GUI) for ease of use. | This distribution focuses on the command-line interface (CLI) and not on the GUI. So, it is more for server environments. |
| Release Cycle | Ubuntu releases updates every six months and offers LTS versions every two years with five years of support. It gets newer software faster than CentOS. | It follows RHEL’s release cycle so it offers fewer updates but longer-term support (usually for 10 years). It is great if you do not want to upgrade your operating system frequently. It gives stability to a system that remains unchanged for several years. |
| Software Updates | It is more up-to-date with the latest software that comes with newer versions of applications. | The focus is on stability so it may not include the latest versions of software but provides well-tested and stable releases. |
| Performance | This OS can be faster and more responsive for desktop users. Its main focus is on performance improvements. | It is great for servers and is made for heavy load performance under long-term stability. Optimized for enterprise hosting or production environments that require stability over time. |
| Security | Has regular security patches and updates. It is generally seen as more accessible for personal use but still secure. | It is often considered the more secure choice for servers. Regular CentOS patches ensure system stability. Also, the security updates are well-tested and ensure that they withstand long-term usage due to their enterprise nature. It is made for mission-critical servers. |
| Popularity | It is extremely popular among personal users and developers due to its ease of use and regular updates. | Widely used in enterprise settings i.e. mainly for hosting and production environments. |
| Support | You can get Ubuntu support from a large and active community. Also, it includes plenty of tutorials and forums to help you solve issues. | It is backed by Red Hat and has a strong community but is generally less beginner-friendly. |
CentOS vs Ubuntu Use Cases
Ubuntu use case –
Its regular updates and extensive software repositories make it suitable for various applications. Ubuntu is good for anything. You can install it on a personal laptop, set it up on a VPS, etc.
- User-friendly desktop experience
- Versatile environment for developers
- To deploy applications in cloud environments
CentOS use cases –
It is excellent for enterprises to get a stable and secure server environment
- Suitable for hosting web servers, database servers, and other critical applications due to its compatibility with RHEL
Ubuntu vs CentOS – Which One is Better for You?
Let us analyse which Linux distribution is right for your needs –
1. For Beginners and Personal Use
Are you new to Linux? Or do you want a desktop environment that is easy to set up? Ubuntu is likely the best choice. It has an easy interface and a lot of software packages so it is great for day-to-day use. It is a simple and effective operating system. Due to the vast community, you will easily find solutions to any issues. On the other hand, CentOS might be more difficult for beginners.
2. For Hosting and Servers
CentOS is right for setting up a server because long-term stability and security are essential for hosting websites and applications that require high uptime. It does not have GUI by default so it may be less appealing for casual use. However, its command-line interface (CLI) is actually an advantage for running a server. It saves system resources and gives for faster performance.
3. For Enterprise and Production Environments
CentOS is also great for businesses that need highly stable, secure, and long-term solutions. It is based on RHEL (used by many large enterprises) so you get the reliability and support needed for mission-critical applications.
4. For the Latest Software and Upgrades
Ubuntu helps you stay up-to-date with the latest software. It has regular releases and updates so you will always be using the latest versions of popular applications. Ubuntu generally provides faster access to newer releases and versions of Python, Apache, or any other software.
Cantech’s Linux Hosting Solutions
Cantech offers different types of Linux hosting plans as per your custom needs. Our services are backed by a 99.97% uptime guarantee and 24/7 support. They include all major Linux distributions including Ubuntu and CentOS. Our Linux shared hosting plans offer affordable options starting at just ₹70 per month.
Also, Cantech provides Linux VPS hosting that is right for those requiring more resources. It has all the advanced benefits. Moreover, our Ubuntu VPS Server comes with high-tech solutions and provides access to dedicated virtual server resources with top-notch security.
Conclusion
So, what is the difference between Ubuntu and CentOS? Both these OSs are fantastic choices in Linux. Also, Ubuntu offers ease of use for beginners but CentOS is made for enterprise and server environments. Now, it depends on your requirements; you may go with Ubuntu’s user-friendly experience or CentOS’ stability for enterprises and long-term server use. Choose the right Linux distribution with Cantech’s Linux hosting solutions. Get in touch today!
FAQs
CentOS vs Ubuntu – Which is better for web hosting?
Both are great for web hosting. Ubuntu is right for smaller-scale or personal web hosting. Whereas, CentOS is better for enterprise-level hosting that requires stability.
Is CentOS 7 support available?
CentOS 7 received support and maintenance updates until June 30, 2024.
Can I use Ubuntu for a production server?
Yes, Ubuntu can be used for production servers in smaller-scale or development-oriented tasks. However, CentOS is suitable for high-security enterprise environments.
