Ubuntu Server vs. Red Hat vs. CentOS: A Comparative Study and A Brief History of Unix

When it comes to server operating systems, there’s no shortage of options. Among the many, three often stand out: Ubuntu Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), and CentOS. Each of these has its strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases. However, before we dive into the comparison, let’s take a brief trip down memory lane to understand the roots of these systems in the form of Unix.

The Roots: A Brief History of Unix

Unix, a powerful, multitasking, multi-user operating system, was developed in the 1970s at the Bell Labs research center. Unix’s inception was more than just the birth of another operating system; it set the stage for a new wave of computing and influenced numerous systems that followed. A pivotal element of Unix is its principle of keeping things simple — a concept that would carry forward into many of its derivatives, collectively termed as Unix-like or Unix-based systems, which include the likes of Linux and BSD.

The Contenders: Ubuntu Server, RHEL, and CentOS

Now, let’s turn our attention to the three key players at hand. While they are all built upon the principles set by Unix, they have taken their unique paths.

Ubuntu Server

Ubuntu Server is an open-source platform that effortlessly scales along with your operations. With its predictable release cycle (every two years), it is widely recognized for its stability and user-friendly approach. The operating system stands out with its robust built-in security, wide hardware compatibility, and extensive package repositories.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)

RHEL is a commercial product from Red Hat Inc., bringing along a suite of support and services not available in free-to-use platforms. It is favored for its exceptional enterprise-level support, strong emphasis on stability and security, and extensive training and documentation. A notable downside, however, is its licensing cost, which might deter smaller projects and organizations.

CentOS

CentOS, standing for Community Enterprise Operating System, is essentially a free version of RHEL. It mirrors the stability and features of RHEL without the cost of licenses and support. This makes it an attractive choice for users who want enterprise-level capabilities without heavy expenses. However, the project’s future became uncertain when Red Hat announced a shift in focus towards CentOS Stream, which will serve as an upstream (development) branch for RHEL.

Other Notable Distributions

Apart from these three, several other distributions warrant a mention:

• Debian: Known for its strict adherence to open-source principles, Debian is famous for its stability and reliability.
• Fedora: Sponsored by Red Hat, Fedora serves as a testing ground for new features, many of which may eventually make their way into RHEL.
• openSUSE: With its easy-to-use setup and configuration tools,openSUSE is a strong contender for both desktops and servers.

Comparison Chart

Conclusion

The choice between Ubuntu Server, Red Hat, and CentOS comes down to your specific needs and circumstances. If your organization requires enterprise-level support and stability, and budget isn’t a primary concern, Red Hat Enterprise Linux would be an ideal choice. On the other hand, if you’re keen to learn and explore, and you’re in a home or small-scale environment where enterprise-level support isn’t crucial, Ubuntu Server or CentOS could be a good starting point. Ultimately, the best operating system is the one that aligns most closely with your requirements and comfort level.