AlmaLinux vs. Rocky Linux: Analysis of Enterprise Linux Options

The decision to discontinue CentOS comes with other options for the users and specifically, we are talking about Enterprise Linux Options such as Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux. Both distributions have rather successful releases, but surely there are some distinctions between these 2 variants.

Here we will deeply compare enterprise Linux options so you will have a better understanding of what to expect from the distros and have a clear understanding of some specific characteristics.

Overview of AlmaLinux

Initially when launched AlmaLinux was called Project Lenix, but fairly quickly the name was changed to the recent one. Like most popular Linux distros, this one is an open-source, secure, and stable system. In some way, it is binary compatible with RHEL.

The stable release of the distro was published in March of 2021 and it will be supported till 2029. AlmaLinux is built with a customized build system that is called ALBS.

Overview of Rocky Linux

As the previously mentioned distro Rocky Linux is also an open-source and free system. In 2020, the announcement of a new project Rocky was made by Red Hat. And rather quickly - the following year, the project was successfully released and fairly quickly it became a used distro among lots of Linux users.

When launching the new distro was presented as 100 percent bug-to-bug competitive with RHEL. That was and still is quite a peculiarity of this Linux distro.

Key Benefits of AlmaLinux

-        Support and community.

-        Stability and security.

-        A good alternative for CentOS.

-        Licenses and fees.

1. A Reliable CentOS Replacement

In case you are searching for a reliable CentOS replacement then we have a good idea for you – AlmaLinux will suit you perfectly. To begin with, you don’t have to be dependent on CentOS 7 or other similar versions. When speaking about the usage of the framework in general, then AlmaLinux gives users the same great experience in terms of design characteristics and performance. In addition to this, compatibility with RHEL is another great bonus so the users will have the possibility to be in touch with the newest UI/UX trends. With all being mentioned, in case you are still on CentOS, you can easily switch without any hesitations, because there is lots of positive feedback from the users of AlmaLinux who are fully satisfied with their experience as well as with the migration of some important scripts.   

2. Strong Stability and Code Standards

When speaking about the code standards, then this distro is based on RHEL. This means it relies on the usage of the standard and, more importantly, the simplest possible commands for accessing. So, new users won’t feel any issues with the management of the system as well as optimizing some important requirements. Tons of information is available online regarding code usage so you can quickly find whatever you need.

The major advantage of AlmaLinux is its strong stability. Let’s try to explain how everything is working with the new software and this distro. Once the new software is launched, it is immediately tested on the CentOS Steam. This is an initial process of checking everything up, and then the commercial version of RHEL receives necessary updates so the next bugs will be usually found and fixed at this stage. Now, when everything has been properly tested, users of AlmaLinux get the same software, but without any issues or bugs. The stability of this distro is obvious and that is definitely important for most clients.

3. Cost-Effective with No Licensing Fees

As for the prices for this distro, it is a free option with no licensing fees. This open-source OS is an awesome option for all the users that need stability, easiness, and a specific set of features, and at the same time, you are getting a cost-effective variant. In AlmaLinux, you will not be charged any payment during the registration and no further additional fees are needed for the usage of this operating system.

4. Active Community and Support

There are no technical challenges that will stop you from the usage of AlmaLinux. Everything is fairly easy and straightforward and the active community makes the process even easier. The support is extremely crucial and you can get it fully to complete the most challenging task. In case, you need deeper assistance on the hosting solutions, then your web provider will surely help with all your questions and requests.

Key Benefits of Rocky Linux

-        Security and support.

-        Reliability and stability.

-        Compatibility and easy migration process.

-        Open-source and free.

1. High Stability and Reliability

For the companies that prioritize the stability of the chosen operating system probably the best possible option will be Rocky Linux. The peculiarity of this distro is in its secure ecosystem and regular testing. This means that clients will experience minimal crashes even during the completion of the most intensive tasks. This can be extremely important for businesses and companies that are working with sensitive information loss which can lead to serious financial loss.

Moreover, this operating system is great for working across various environments including hybrid setups, servers, and cloud platforms. You don’t need to invest tons of money into a stable and reliable OS and it is proven with Rocky Linux.

2. Fully Open-Source and Community-Driven

Community-driven and fully open-source nature of Rocky Linux makes it an ideal variant for controlling the entire infrastructure. The community creates an innovative approach, guarantees transparency, and of course offers regular updates. Active community collaborations mean that you will always have a stable system.

Community-driven actions help to create new trends and react to the users' needs much faster when compared with other OSs. The customization level is awesome so companies can be as flexible as they want to in the completion of their tasks. No fees - is one more bonus that you get together with Rocky Linux.

3. Easy Migration and Compatibility

In case you are still a CentOS user and need to migrate to an alternative option, then Rocky Linux is a great option. With the support level and provided tools, the process of migration becomes so much easier. You can be sure that necessary configuration, used apps, and workloads function will be simply transferred without the necessity to undergo extensive modifications. That means businesses can greatly minimize downtime.

The diversity of tools and software means that IT professionals will not have trouble with compatibility. Rocky Linux integration is so straightforward that you will hardly experience any challenges.

4. Long-Term Security and Support

One more benefit that is also worth talking about is the long-term support of the Rocky Linux system. This distro is definitely a great option for companies that are searching for a secure and at the same time well-maintained environment. Regular updates and patches to deal with current vulnerabilities guarantee that the system will stay protected against new threats. High-security standards make Rocky Linux a great option for all companies connected with finances, healthcare, and government.

Comparing Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux: Main Differences

FAQ

1. Which OS offers better stability: AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux?

Stability-wise both these options are great because they are compatible with RHEL and are enterprise-grade. Rocky Linux is oriented toward long-term stability principles while AlmaLinux offers regular updates. Generally, the choice is a personal decision based on subjective preferences.

2. Which has a larger user community and support: AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux?

Rocky Linux has a bigger community, but the support network of AlmaLinux is constantly growing. That means both of the OSs offer access to the forums, support channels, important documentation, and much more.

3. Which is more suitable for production use: AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux?

For the production use both OSs suit perfectly fine. Rocky Linux is an awesome variant for those who are prioritizing stability. Whereas AlmaLinux is more for clients who need immediate updates and also are searching for an enterprise-backed support level.

4. Which is better for virtualization and containerization: AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux?

Both OSs are good for the containerization and virtualization tasks. Rocky Linux focuses more on performance in virtualization. While AlmaLinux has great support from top cloud providers. The choice depends on the current user case.