CCLOUD博客2024年CentOS该用什么版本？
结论
As we approach the year 2024, the landscape of CentOS usage and support has evolved significantly. Given the discontinuation of CentOS 8 in December 2021 and the introduction of CentOS Stream, our recommendation for 2024 is to adopt CentOS Stream as your primary distribution. For organizations requiring a stable, long-term support (LTS) version, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) remains the most viable option, with CentOS Stream serving as an excellent development platform that closely mirrors RHEL.
Introduction: The Evolution of CentOS
To understand why CentOS Stream is the recommended choice for 2024, let’s delve into the history of CentOS and its recent changes. Originally, CentOS was a community-supported, free and open-source operating system that aimed to provide a compatible clone of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). However, in 2020, Red Hat announced that CentOS would transition from being a static operating system to a rolling-release model, known as CentOS Stream.
This decision sparked controversy within the community, leading some users to seek alternatives such as Rocky Linux or AlmaLinux. Despite this, CentOS Stream has gained traction and is now seen as a robust development platform that provides early access to new features and security updates.
Why CentOS Stream?
Rolling Release Model
One of the key advantages of CentOS Stream is its rolling release model. Unlike traditional CentOS versions, which had fixed release cycles, CentOS Stream continuously receives updates, ensuring that users have access to the latest software and security patches. This model aligns well with modern development practices, where frequent updates and rapid iteration are essential.
Compatibility with RHEL
Another significant benefit of CentOS Stream is its compatibility with RHEL. Since CentOS Stream acts as a testing ground for future RHEL releases, it offers developers and organizations a way to test and validate applications and configurations before they are officially released in RHEL. This ensures a smooth transition to the latest RHEL versions without significant reconfiguration.
Community Support
Despite the initial backlash, the CentOS community has rallied around CentOS Stream, providing extensive documentation, forums, and resources for users. The vibrant community fosters innovation and collaboration, making CentOS Stream an attractive choice for developers and IT professionals alike.
Alternatives Considered
Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux
In response to the discontinuation of CentOS 8, several alternative distributions emerged, including Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux. These distributions aim to fill the gap left by traditional CentOS by offering a stable, RHEL-compatible operating system. While both options are viable, they lack the forward momentum and community support that CentOS Stream enjoys.
Ubuntu and Debian
Ubuntu and Debian are popular alternatives to CentOS, offering robust and stable Linux distributions. However, these options may not be suitable for organizations heavily invested in RHEL ecosystems or those requiring a direct RHEL compatibility layer.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the future of CentOS Stream looks promising. As more organizations embrace cloud-native technologies and DevOps methodologies, the need for a flexible and up-to-date operating system becomes paramount. CentOS Stream’s rolling release model and compatibility with RHEL make it an ideal choice for meeting these evolving needs.
Moreover, Red Hat’s continued investment in CentOS Stream signals a strong commitment to its success. With ongoing improvements and enhancements, CentOS Stream is poised to become the go-to distribution for developers and organizations seeking a cutting-edge Linux environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, for 2024, CentOS Stream stands out as the recommended version of CentOS due to its rolling release model, compatibility with RHEL, and vibrant community support. While alternatives like Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux offer stability, CentOS Stream’s alignment with modern development practices and its position as a testing ground for RHEL make it the most compelling choice for organizations looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of technology.