CentOS vs Ubuntu is an important comparison when choosing a Linux operating system for your VPS. Both can run websites, databases, and business applications, but they differ in software management, release schedules, and compatibility with enterprise tools.
Ubuntu LTS is often the easier choice for general-purpose hosting, while CentOS Stream is especially useful for workloads built around the Red Hat Enterprise Linux ecosystem.
However, CentOS has undergone significant changes in recent years. Understanding those changes is essential before installing it on a production server.
What Happened to CentOS Linux?
CentOS Linux was originally a community-maintained rebuild of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It became popular among hosting providers and administrators who wanted an enterprise-oriented Linux distribution without a RHEL subscription.
However, the CentOS Project discontinued CentOS Linux in favor of CentOS Stream.
CentOS Linux 8 reached end of life in December 2021, followed by CentOS Linux 7 on June 30, 2024.
CentOS Stream now serves as the public development branch for upcoming RHEL minor releases. It receives changes ahead of their inclusion in RHEL, rather than rebuilding packages after RHEL releases them.
This distinction matters when selecting an operating system for long-term production hosting.
CentOS vs Ubuntu: Quick Comparison
| Feature | CentOS Stream | Ubuntu LTS |
|---|---|---|
| Linux family | Red Hat ecosystem | Debian-based |
| Package manager | DNF | APT |
| Package format | RPM | DEB |
| Release approach | Continuously updated within a major version | Scheduled long-term support releases |
| Security framework | SELinux by default | AppArmor by default |
| Commercial support | Community project; RHEL support is separate | Optional Canonical support through Ubuntu Pro |
| Best suited for | RHEL-oriented development and infrastructure | General hosting, applications, and development |
Both distributions are free to use, support common server software, and provide powerful administration tools.
The main differences become apparent when managing packages, planning upgrades, and deploying applications.
Key Differences Between CentOS and Ubuntu
1. Software and Package Management
Ubuntu uses the APT package manager and .deb packages.
For example, installing Nginx on Ubuntu typically involves:
sudo apt install nginxCentOS Stream uses DNF and .rpm packages:
sudo dnf install nginxBoth tools manage software dependencies and updates, but their package repositories and available versions differ.
Configuration details can also vary. For instance, Apache is generally managed as apache2 on Ubuntu and httpd on CentOS Stream.
Neither package management system is inherently better. Familiarity and application compatibility matter more.
2. Updates and Release Lifecycle
Ubuntu publishes new releases every six months, with long-term support (LTS) versions released every two years.
As of October 2026, Ubuntu 26.04 LTS receives standard security maintenance for Main repository packages until May 2031. Ubuntu Pro provides additional security coverage options.
CentOS Stream follows the development cycle of its corresponding RHEL major release.
The currently supported CentOS Stream versions have these planned end-of-life dates:
- CentOS Stream 9: May 31, 2027.
- CentOS Stream 10: May 31, 2030.
Unlike the discontinued CentOS Linux, CentOS Stream does not provide the same downstream RHEL rebuild model.
For long-running production services, check your planned maintenance period and ensure your applications support the selected operating system version.
3. Security and Stability
Both CentOS Stream and Ubuntu include security updates and established Linux security mechanisms.
CentOS Stream typically uses SELinux for mandatory access control, while Ubuntu commonly uses AppArmor.
Either system can be configured securely, but administrators must understand the relevant access policies, network settings, and patching procedures.
Ubuntu LTS prioritizes predictable long-term maintenance. CentOS Stream receives updates that help shape upcoming RHEL releases.
That doesn’t automatically make CentOS Stream unsuitable for production. It does mean administrators should consider vendor compatibility and test updates carefully.
4. Performance and Resource Usage
You may encounter claims that CentOS is faster than Ubuntu or that Ubuntu consumes more memory.
In reality, neither distribution is inherently faster for every workload.
Performance depends on installed services, kernel configuration, storage performance, CPU resources, and application optimization.
A minimal installation of either distribution can run efficiently on a properly sized VPS.
When comparing server performance, focus on your actual workload rather than distribution-specific benchmarks alone.
CentOS vs Ubuntu: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Ubuntu for General Web Hosting
Ubuntu LTS is a practical choice for WordPress websites, web applications, APIs, and development environments.
It has extensive documentation and broad support among software vendors, making installation and troubleshooting relatively straightforward.
Ubuntu is particularly attractive if your project uses common development frameworks or deployment tools with Ubuntu-specific instructions.
Our Debian vs Ubuntu comparison also explains how Ubuntu differs from another popular Linux server distribution.
If you're exploring other Red Hat-based Linux distributions, our Fedora vs Ubuntu guide compares their release cycles, security features, and suitability for VPS hosting.
Choose CentOS Stream for RHEL-Oriented Workloads
CentOS Stream is worth considering when your applications or development processes depend on technologies used in the Red Hat ecosystem.
It can be useful for testing software against changes expected in upcoming RHEL releases, building RPM-based applications, and maintaining familiarity with RHEL administration tools.
However, if an application requires a certified RHEL environment or an exact RHEL-compatible platform, verify its requirements before selecting CentOS Stream.
Consider AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux for Traditional CentOS Workloads
If you’ve previously used CentOS Linux because of its close relationship with released RHEL versions, CentOS Stream may not be the replacement you’re looking for.
Distributions such as AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux provide alternative enterprise Linux environments.
ZYNOO offers both AlmaLinux VPS and Rocky Linux VPS hosting for customers who prefer those ecosystems.
The appropriate choice depends on application certification, package compatibility, and your maintenance requirements.
Your Linux VPS, Your Choice.
Deploy on NVMe-powered VPS hosting with KVM virtualization and full root access.
Choosing an Operating System for Your VPS
Before deploying your server, consider these questions:
- What does your software support? Check the operating systems and versions recommended by your application or control panel vendor.
- How often can you perform maintenance? Consider security updates, major upgrades, and the release lifecycle.
- Which distribution does your team know? Familiar administration tools can simplify troubleshooting and reduce mistakes.
- What resources does your application require? Choose appropriate CPU, RAM, and storage independently of the operating system.
For example, ZYNOO provides CentOS VPS hosting and Ubuntu VPS hosting with KVM virtualization, NVMe storage, and full root access.
Check the available OS versions during checkout and confirm software compatibility before deployment.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The original CentOS Linux distribution is discontinued. CentOS Linux 7 reached end of life on June 30, 2024. CentOS Stream continues as a separate distribution.
CentOS Stream can be used for production workloads, but suitability depends on the application, update management, and vendor support requirements. Some organizations may prefer RHEL or another enterprise Linux distribution for specific production environments.
Ubuntu is often easier for beginners because of its extensive documentation and third-party tutorials. CentOS Stream is also manageable for users familiar with Linux administration and the Red Hat ecosystem.
Yes, but moving between these distributions usually requires a fresh installation or server migration. Back up application data and configurations, then deploy them on the new operating system.
Conclusion
CentOS and Ubuntu remain useful Linux server operating systems, but they serve somewhat different needs.
Choose Ubuntu LTS if you want broad application compatibility, predictable long-term support, and extensive documentation.
Choose CentOS Stream if your project benefits from the RHEL development ecosystem and your team is comfortable managing its update model.
For traditional CentOS Linux workloads, AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux may also deserve consideration.
Ultimately, the best VPS operating system is the one that supports your applications, matches your administration skills, and fits your maintenance plans.
