AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux vs. Ubuntu for Enterprise Environments

In the wake of CentOS’s shift from a stable server edition to a rolling release model, many businesses involved in enterprise computing have been on the lookout for viable, long-term alternatives to fill that void. Two promising contenders that have emerged are AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux. Both operating systems are gaining traction as replacements for CentOS and bringing new choices to the table alongside established players like Ubuntu. Here, we'll delve into a comparison of AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux with Ubuntu, focusing on their suitability for enterprise environments.

Background and Introduction

AlmaLinux: Developed by the team at CloudLinux, AlmaLinux serves as a 1:1 binary compatible fork of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It emerged as a direct response to the CentOS shift and is community-driven and open-source.
Rocky Linux: Initiated by Gregory Kurtzer, founder of the CentOS project, Rocky Linux is also a RHEL fork, community-driven and designed to be a production-ready enterprise operating system that functions as a downstream build as CentOS had previously.
Ubuntu: Unlike AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux, Ubuntu is based on Debian and is developed by Canonical Ltd. It is the most popular Linux distribution for cloud environments and offers both desktop and server versions. Long Term Support (LTS) releases, provided every two years, are supported for up to ten years.

Key Considerations for Enterprise Environments

Stability and Reliability

Both AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux aim to be stable, predictable, and capable of supporting enterprise software ecosystems without unexpected disruptions. Their binary compatibility with RHEL ensures that applications certified for RHEL are likely to work seamlessly. Ubuntu’s LTS versions also offer similar levels of stability and reliability, making these three operating systems appropriate for critical applications.

Security and Support

AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux: Provide robust security features that are on par with RHEL. Ongoing support is community-driven, which can be a concern for enterprises requiring dedicated commercial support. However, CloudLinux offers commercial support for AlmaLinux.
Ubuntu: Offers extensive security features and the advantage of Canonical’s commercial support, including 24/7 services and Extended Security Maintenance (ESM), making it a strong contender for businesses that prioritize security and vendor support.

Performance and Compatibility

AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux: Offer excellent performance, particularly in environments originally designed for CentOS or RHEL. They support legacy applications and infrastructure without needing significant changes.
Ubuntu: Traditionally performs well in a variety of workloads, particularly in cloud and container deployments, thanks to optimizations for these environments.

Ease of Migration

AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux: Present an easier migration path for CentOS users, ensuring minimal disruption in enterprise workflows.
Ubuntu: Migration might require more adjustments, especially for applications dependent on RPM packages, common in CentOS and RHEL environments.

Community and Ecosystem

The ecosystem surrounding an OS can often be as important as the system itself. AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux both have growing communities, committed to maintaining continuity for CentOS users. Ubuntu benefits from an established, vibrant community and a wealth of tutorials, forums, and third-party software.

Cost

For enterprises, the cost goes beyond just the price of the software—it includes migration, maintenance, and ongoing management costs. All three options are open-source with no licensing fees, but potential costs can come from needing commercial support, especially in critical environments where rapid professional support is a must.

Conclusion

For businesses still aligned with RHEL infrastructure and seeking stability after the shift in the CentOS project, both AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux present compelling arguments. They offer a familiar environment with strong community backing. Ubuntu, however, may be preferable for those enterprises that require extensive vendor support and are comfortable with a Debian-based ecosystem, particularly in cloud and containerized environments.

Before deciding, consider not only the technical details but also the nature of your applications, your team's expertise, and the specific needs of your business environment. Ultimately, the right choice will align most closely with your enterprise's strategic goals and operational priorities.