What is the difference between CentOS AND CentOS Stream ?
When it comes to CentOS and CentOS Stream, it’s easy to get confused. Both distributions originate from the same source code, but they serve distinct purposes and cater to different user groups. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the key differences between CentOS and CentOS Stream to help you understand which one might be the right fit for your needs.
CentOS: Stability and Reliability for Production Workloads
CentOS, short for Community Enterprise Operating System, is a reliable and free Linux distribution designed to offer a stable platform for server environments. It closely aligns with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), leveraging the same source code. CentOS follows the release cycle of RHEL, ensuring long-term support and predictable updates. This focus on stability, security, and compatibility makes CentOS an excellent choice for production workloads that require a dependable operating system.
CentOS Stream: The Bridge Between Fedora and RHEL
CentOS Stream takes a different approach. Positioned between Fedora (a cutting-edge, community-driven distribution) and RHEL, CentOS Stream serves as a rolling-release distribution. It provides users with a platform that offers more up-to-date features and allows them to be part of the development process. CentOS Stream acts as a testing ground for RHEL updates, giving users the opportunity to contribute feedback and participate in shaping future releases. This makes CentOS Stream an attractive choice for developers and users seeking a dynamic environment with early access to new features and improvements.
Which One to Choose?
Deciding between CentOS and CentOS Stream largely depends on your specific requirements and preferences. If you prioritize stability, long-term support, and a reliable operating system for production workloads, CentOS is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re a developer or an enthusiast eager to explore the latest innovations and contribute to the evolution of RHEL, CentOS Stream offers an exciting path.
Conclusion:
CentOS and CentOS Stream are sibling distributions, but they serve different purposes. CentOS focuses on providing a stable and dependable operating system for production environments, while CentOS Stream offers a rolling-release platform that allows users to engage in the development process and access new features before they reach the next RHEL release. Understanding the differences between these two options is crucial in choosing the right fit for your specific needs.
Bulent.
