Is CentOS still relevant today?
Tags: linux, virtualmachine, devops, security
Published: 2023-08-21 18:03:48

> In the ever-evolving landscape of operating systems, _CentOS_ stands as a stalwart favorite among developers worldwide. Renowned for its <u>stability</u>, <u>security</u>, and <u>open-source nature</u>, **CentOS** has earned its place as a go-to choice for both beginner and experienced developers alike. In this blog post, we delve into the reasons behind CentOS's enduring popularity in the **developer** **community**

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## - **Open Source Foundation:**


![open source foundation png](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/hx7vtwxq0ys4tuz9e309.jpg)
CentOS is built upon the source code of the Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) distribution, which is one of the most respected and widely used commercial Linux distributions. CentOS follows a strict policy of adhering to the open-source philosophy, making it an ideal choice for developers who prioritize transparency and the ability to modify and contribute to the operating system's source code.



## - **Stability and Long-Term Support:**


One of the primary reasons developers are drawn to **CentOS** is its renowned stability and long-term support. CentOS releases are known for their **reliability** and **robustness**, making them suitable for critical _server deployments_ and _production environments_. This stability translates to fewer disruptions and a reduced need for frequent updates, which is highly appealing to developers focused on maintaining consistent and reliable systems.



## - **Security Focus:**


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/l0xo55qvgqwozirmxc8k.jpg)
Security is a paramount concern for developers, and CentOS doesn't disappoint in this area. The CentOS team is proactive in addressing security vulnerabilities and providing timely security updates, ensuring that the operating system remains robust against emerging threats. This commitment to security makes CentOS a trusted choice for applications and services that require a secure foundation.



## - **Active Community and Support:**

CentOS boasts a vibrant and active user community that contributes to its popularity. Developers can easily find solutions to problems, seek guidance, and participate in discussions on forums, mailing lists, and other online platforms. 


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/ui5t2cfhnnhhfbilbl1e.jpg)

> This strong community support network facilitates learning, troubleshooting, and collaboration among developers, making CentOS an excellent choice for those who value a sense of belonging to a larger community.



## - **Variety of Software Repositories:**

CentOS provides access to a broad range of software packages through its repositories. This expansive software ecosystem includes development tools, programming languages, libraries, and frameworks. _Developers can quickly set up their development environments and access the tools they need without the hassle of hunting down dependencies from various sources.



## - **Ease of Migration:**

For developers migrating from other Linux distributions, CentOS provides a relatively smooth transition due to its similarity to RHEL and its adherence to widely accepted Linux conventions.

>This familiarity streamlines the adaptation process, enabling developers to focus on their projects without grappling with significant changes to their workflows.



## - **Customizability:**


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/p7se9uijn6pggqiaomiw.jpg)
CentOS offers developers the flexibility to customize their installations to suit specific project requirements. This customizability extends to the kernel and other components, allowing developers to fine-tune their environments for optimal performance and resource utilization.


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> _These factors collectively make CentOS an appealing choice for developers seeking a reliable, secure, and versatile operating system to support their projects and initiatives. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting your coding journey, CentOS offers a solid platform that empowers you to bring your ideas to life with confidence._

## **but**

## is it still relevant today?

> CentOS Project shifted its focus from CentOS Linux, which was a downstream, community-supported version of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), to CentOS Stream, which is an upstream development platform for RHEL.
> CentOS Stream is designed to provide a rolling-release distribution that helps to develop and test features before they make their way into RHEL. This change led to concerns among users who preferred CentOS Linux for its stability and predictability.
> However, the discontinuation of CentOS Linux has caused a significant amount of discussion and debate within the community. It's recommended that you check the official CentOS website or other reputable sources for the most up-to-date information regarding the status of CentOS Linux and CentOS Stream, as developments might have occurred after September 2021.