Oracle Linux: An Evaluation Against RHEL and CentOS

Choosing the right Linux distribution can be a challenging task, especially when considering the robust commercial options like Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) and Community electrons, commonly known as CentOS. Oracle has entered the market with Oracle Linux, which is effectively a RHEL clone without the branding. However, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let's explore why Oracle Linux might be considered a better alternative to CentOS and why it is not necessarily better than RHEL.

Oracle Linux and Its Relation to RHEL and CentOS

Oracle Linux is built on RHEL, the original source package published by Red Hat, but with branding removed. Similar to CentOS, it is essentially a bit-by-bit clone of RHEL. CentOS was once a popular alternative, but Oracle has introduced some additional tools and features for paying subscribers, such as Ksplice, which it acquired.

While some argue that Ksplice and other advanced tools offered by Oracle can be beneficial, practical experience often shows that these tools may cause more issues than they solve. Servers, like any other computer system, still require proper reboots.

Why Oracle Linux Is Better Than CentOS

Support

One of the key advantages of Oracle Linux over CentOS is support. Red Hat releases security patches, which are generally available on the Oracle Linux repository on the same day or the next day. In contrast, CentOS lags behind, releasing updates up to a month after the initial release. This delay can be significant, especially for critical security patches.

Security

Security is another crucial factor. Oracle Linux provides the same level of security updates as RHEL, which is paid, at no cost. This means you have the same level of protection as paying customers, without the need to invest in a commercial support plan. This immediacy and reliability concerning security updates are significant advantages.

Upgradability

Oracle Linux offers an easy upgrade path to full support if needed. If you decide to move to commercial support at a later stage, there is no need to change anything in your setup. CentOS, on the other hand, does not provide this flexibility. You would need to remove all CentOS components and reinstall the operating system to switch to RHEL.

Why Oracle Linux Is Not As Good As RHEL

While Oracle Linux has several advantages over CentOS, it is not as robust as RHEL. Red Hat Enterprise Linux is the original product and is backed by a larger corporation with extensive resources. However, the main drawback of Oracle Linux is its reputation within the open-source community. Oracle has a history of damaging open-source projects and enforcing restrictive licensing policies.

Alternatives to CentOS

CentOS, once a popular choice, is facing a difficult future. Red Hat has officially deprecated CentOS and introduced CentOS Stream, a fast-moving stream of testing, experimentation, and innovation. Two alternatives are emerging: Rocky Linux and CloudLinux.

Rocky Linux is an independent, community-driven distribution that aims to continue the legacy of CentOS while maintaining independence. It is a full and complete distribution, not a downstream build.

CloudLinux is another option. It offers a stable and reliable environment, but it is more focused on specific enterprise use cases and has a different approach compared to Rocky Linux.

Conclusion

When evaluating the choice between Oracle Linux, RHEL, and CentOS, it is clear that Oracle Linux offers a compelling alternative to CentOS in terms of support and security. However, it falls short of the robustness and community trust that RHEL enjoys. Alternatives like Rocky Linux and CloudLinux are worth considering, especially as CentOS faces a challenging future.

If you prioritize support, security, and flexibility, Oracle Linux is a strong choice. However, if you are heavily invested in the RHEL ecosystem or need the most robust enterprise solution, RHEL remains the clear frontrunner. As for CentOS, its future remains uncertain, creating an opportunity for new alternatives to emerge.

Key Takeaways:

Support: Oracle Linux offers the same level of support as RHEL but at no cost. Security: Oracle Linux provides timely security updates, matching RHEL's standards. Upgradability: Oracle Linux eases the path to commercial support, unlike CentOS. Alternatives: Rocky Linux and CloudLinux are emerging as alternatives to CentOS.

Note: This evaluation is based on the current landscape and may change as new developments occur.