目次
1. Introduction
There are various Linux distributions available, each developed with different characteristics and purposes. Among them, Ubuntu and CentOS are two representative distributions widely used across a range of environments, from general users to enterprise-level server operations. However, since they differ significantly in terms of use cases and features, many users often find it difficult to decide which one to choose.
This article explains the fundamental differences between Ubuntu and CentOS, highlights the unique characteristics of each distribution, and provides guidance on how to select the right one based on specific needs. By the end, readers will be able to make a confident decision when choosing the Linux distribution that best suits their environment.
2. Overview of Ubuntu and CentOS
Features of Ubuntu
Ubuntu is a Linux distribution developed and provided by Canonical Ltd., a UK-based company, and is based on Debian. It is widely known as a beginner-friendly Linux distribution. Below are the key features of Ubuntu:
- User-friendly design
Ubuntu is designed so that users unfamiliar with Linux can easily operate it, offering an intuitive and smooth process from installation to configuration. Its desktop version uses the popular GNOME environment, making the transition from Windows or macOS relatively seamless. - Extensive support and active community
Canonical provides commercial support for Ubuntu, and its LTS (Long Term Support) versions offer long-term security updates. Additionally, Ubuntu has a highly active global community of users and developers, providing abundant information regarding troubleshooting and technical issues. - Release cycle
Ubuntu provides two release types: a regular version released every six months and an LTS version released every two years. The LTS version offers five years of support, making it a popular choice among users who prioritize stability.
Features of CentOS
CentOS (Community ENTerprise Operating System) is an open-source Linux distribution based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) and is primarily recommended for enterprise environments. Below are the main features of CentOS:
- Enterprise-level stability
CentOS uses the same source code as RHEL and is characterized by the high level of stability and reliability required in corporate environments. Since frequent updates are not necessary, it allows users to maintain the same environment over long periods, which is highly valued in enterprise use cases. - Community-driven development
CentOS is often considered the free counterpart of RHEL. While it does not include official commercial support, users benefit from extensive community-driven assistance. Due to its compatibility with RHEL, technical information and documentation available for RHEL can be effectively utilized. - Release cycle and support period
CentOS follows RHEL’s release schedule, with major updates appearing every few years. Since long-term support is provided after release, it is particularly suitable for servers or mission-critical systems where stable long-term operation is required.
3. Comparison of Key Differences
Development Sources and Support Systems
- Ubuntu: Commercial support by Canonical Ltd.
Ubuntu offers comprehensive commercial support provided directly by Canonical, with five years of long-term support for LTS releases. Paid enterprise support options are also available, making Ubuntu a reliable choice for server environments and corporate operations. - CentOS: Community-driven with RHEL compatibility
CentOS is derived from the same source code as Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). While it does not include official commercial support, it can be used at no cost, making it an economical option for building systems compatible with RHEL-based environments. However, users who require technical support may need to rely on external resources or engineers.
Package Management Systems
- Ubuntu: APT and DEB packages
As Ubuntu is based on Debian, it uses APT (Advanced Package Tool) for package management and adopts DEB-format packages. APT offers extensive repositories and makes installation and management of software straightforward. Users can also take advantage of PPAs (Personal Package Archives) to easily install the latest packages or custom software. - CentOS: YUM or DNF and RPM packages
CentOS inherits its package management structure from RHEL and uses YUM (Yellowdog Updater, Modified) or its successor DNF, along with RPM-format packages. RPM packages emphasize stability, making them widely used in enterprise environments. Many middleware and business applications are available in RPM format, which enhances convenience in corporate system operations.
Release Cycles and Support Periods
- Ubuntu: Biannual releases and five-year LTS support
Ubuntu follows a six-month release cycle, consistently providing the latest features and improvements. The LTS (Long Term Support) version includes five years of guaranteed support, making it ideal for users who need a stable, long-term environment. - CentOS: RHEL-based releases and extended support
CentOS adheres to the RHEL release cycle, offering major updates every few years. Since enterprise environments typically avoid frequent version changes, CentOS is well-suited for long-term deployments. Support periods can extend up to 10 years, making CentOS particularly attractive for mission-critical systems.
Default File Systems
- Ubuntu: ext4 (with ZFS support)
Ubuntu uses ext4 as its default file system while also supporting ZFS. ZFS offers advanced features for data integrity and protection, making it well suited for environments handling large-scale data or server operations. ext4 remains a reliable, high-performance option for both desktop and server use cases. - CentOS: XFS and ext4
CentOS uses XFS as its default file system, which excels in handling large datasets and provides excellent performance and scalability. XFS is frequently used in enterprise systems, while ext4 remains an available alternative depending on the deployment requirements.
User Interface
- Ubuntu: Desktop (GUI) and Server (CLI) editions available
Ubuntu offers both desktop and server editions. The desktop edition includes a GNOME-based GUI, making it easy for beginners to get started with Linux. The server edition is CLI-based by default, but users can optionally install a GUI when required. - CentOS: Primarily server-oriented, GUI optional
CentOS is typically deployed in server environments, and a GUI is not included by default. While a GUI can be installed if needed, CentOS is designed for intermediate to advanced users who are comfortable operating in a CLI environment, ensuring minimal resource usage.
4. Selection Points by Use Case
Desktop Use
- Ubuntu’s ease of use and extensive applications
For desktop use, Ubuntu is especially recommended. Since the GUI is included by default, it offers a smooth experience for users transitioning from Windows or macOS. A wide selection of applications is available from official repositories, making software installation simple. Many free applications, office suites, and multimedia tools are also provided, enabling users to perform everyday tasks and development work without issues. - CentOS is not ideal for desktop use
CentOS is not well suited for desktop environments. It is designed mainly for server deployments, and desktop-oriented applications are limited. Additionally, since the GUI is not installed by default, using CentOS as a desktop OS requires additional configuration and software installation.
Server Use
- CentOS for stability and long-term support
For server environments, CentOS excels in stability and long-term support. CentOS is based on the RHEL source code, has a strong track record in commercial environments, and is widely considered reliable. Since it does not require frequent updates, it is suitable for long-term operation and reduces maintenance overhead, making it a preferred choice for enterprise workloads and web servers. - Ubuntu Server for flexibility and comprehensive support
Ubuntu is also suitable for server environments, particularly when adopting modern technologies or cloud-based infrastructure. LTS versions receive long-term support from Canonical, making Ubuntu a stable option for enterprise deployments. Ubuntu is also highly compatible with cloud services such as AWS and GCP and is often chosen for containerized and virtualized systems.
Development Environments
- Ubuntu’s latest packages and extensive development tools
When used as a development environment, Ubuntu stands out thanks to its abundance of up-to-date packages and libraries. Major development tools such as Python, Node.js, and Docker can be installed directly from official repositories, making Ubuntu ideal for engineers who prioritize rapid development. With the APT package management system, dependency resolution is straightforward, making Ubuntu suitable for both beginners and advanced developers. - CentOS for enterprise-grade development environments
Conversely, CentOS is widely used as a development environment in enterprise settings, especially for systems where stability is essential. CentOS’s emphasis on consistency and reliability makes it suitable for mission-critical applications and environments handling large-scale databases. Projects that require compatibility with Red Hat-based development workflows often choose CentOS for these reasons.
5. Conclusion
This article explored Ubuntu and CentOS—two of the most widely adopted Linux distributions—from their fundamental characteristics to their differences and use-case-based selection criteria. Each distribution targets different goals and user groups, so the best choice depends on the intended environment and required features.
- Ubuntu is well suited for desktop use and modern development environments. Its user-friendly GUI, comprehensive application availability, and efficient APT-based package management system have earned it popularity among developers and Linux beginners alike. Additionally, the five-year support period of its LTS releases ensures reliability for enterprise deployments.
- CentOS excels in server environments that demand enterprise-grade stability and long-term support. Its compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux reinforces its credibility, making it a preferred choice for corporate systems, web servers, and resource-efficient CLI-based operations.
In summary, if you are focusing on desktop usage or cutting-edge development environments, Ubuntu is the ideal choice. On the other hand, if your needs are centered around server operations or enterprise-grade infrastructure, CentOS offers unmatched stability and long-term value. Understanding the strengths of each distribution will help you build an optimized Linux environment and ensure efficient, reliable system operations.
