Rocky Linux 9.3: A Robust Contender in the Enterprise Linux Arena

 

Rocky Linux 9.3: A Robust Contender in the Enterprise Linux Arena

Introduction

Rocky Linux is an open-source enterprise operating system designed to be 100% bug-for-bug compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)[1]. Developed by the Rocky Enterprise Software Foundation, it is a downstream, complete binary-compatible release using the RHEL operating system source code[1]. The project's aim is to provide a community-supported, production-grade enterprise operating system[1].

Origin and History

Rocky Linux was created in response to the shift in the CentOS project's direction in December 2020. CentOS, previously a downstream RHEL build, changed to an upstream build, which led to the creation of Rocky Linux. The first release of Rocky Linux was on May 1, 2021[1].

Editions and Team

Rocky Linux is developed by the Rocky Enterprise Software Foundation, a privately owned benefit corporation that describes itself as a "self-imposed not-for-profit"[1]. The project is under intensive development by the community, with the community, sponsors, and partners investing with long-term commitments to ensure the project stays with the community[1].

Unique Features of Rocky Linux 9.3

Rocky Linux 9.3, powered by Linux kernel 5.14, brings several notable features and improvements[1]:

- Cloud and Container Images: The release reintroduces cloud and container images for ppc64le architecture[1][4].

- Unified Kernel Image: A new kernel-uki package provides a Unified Kernel Image (UKI) variant for booting Rocky Linux[4].

- Enhanced AWS EC2 Support: The AWS EC2 AMD or Intel 64-bit architecture AMI image now supports UEFI boot alongside the legacy BIOS boot[1][4].

- Security Improvements: Significant rebasing and improvements to various components such as Keylime, OpenSSH, pcsc-lite-ccid USB CCID, and ICCD driver have been made[1].

- Updated Development Tools: Updates in dynamic programming languages, web and database servers, compilers, and development tools have been introduced, including GCC Toolset 13 and updates to LLVM 16.0.6, Rust 1.71.1, and Go 1.20.6 toolsets[1].

Comparison with EuroLinux and Oracle Linux

EuroLinux is a Polish Enterprise-class Linux distribution that has been in development since 2013, compatible with systems such as Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, Alma Linux, and RHEL[8]. It offers the same operating environment of software designed for these systems, and provides the same hardware certification[8]. EuroLinux stands out for its simple and friendly licensing, easy, fast, and secure migration from CentOS, Oracle® Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, RHEL®, and a fair price[8].

Oracle Linux, on the other hand, is well-known for its strong security measures, stability, and excellent technical support[6]. It is good for web, network, and file management[6]. Oracle Linux is rated 8.4, while Rocky Linux is rated 7.6[6].

While Rocky Linux is a robust and secure enterprise-grade operating system designed as a drop-in replacement for CentOS, it does not offer increased functionality over CentOS Linux[9]. However, it is a pure community effort, driven by the community, and is a non-commercial distribution promising to be exactly what CentOS Linux was supposed to be before RHEL changed its mind[9].

Installation Tips and System Requirements

For users eager to install Rocky Linux 9.3, the process is straightforward. The download page offers various versions for different architectures, specifically, x86_64, ARM64, ppc64le, and s390x[1]. If you are running Rocky Linux 9.2, upgrading to the 9.3 release is seamless[1].

Troubleshooting Tips

Rocky Linux releases are put through thorough testing to ensure correctness and stability[7]. However, if you encounter any issues, you can join the team on chat.rockylinux.org for assistance[7].

Disclaimer

This article is provided by The Distrowrite Project and is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose.

Citations:

[1] Rocky Linux 9.3 Released, Here's What's New - Linuxiac https://linuxiac.com/rocky-linux-9-3-released/

[2] EuroLinux vs. CentOS – comparing the Linux distributions https://en.euro-linux.com/blog/eurolinux-vs-centos-comparing-the-linux-distributions/

[3] Compare Oracle Linux vs. Rocky Linux | G2 https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-rocky-linux

[4] Rocky Linux 9.3 Brings Back Cloud and Container Images for PowerPC 64-Bit - 9to5Linux https://9to5linux.com/rocky-linux-9-3-brings-back-cloud-and-container-images-for-powerpc-64-bit

[5] Compare EuroLinux Desktop vs. Rocky Linux in 2023 - Slashdot https://slashdot.org/software/comparison/EuroLinux-Desktop-vs-Rocky-Linux/

[6] Oracle Linux vs Rocky Linux Comparison 2023 | PeerSpot https://www.peerspot.com/products/comparisons/oracle-linux_vs_rocky-linux

[7] Rocky Linux 9.3 Available Now https://rockylinux.org/news/rocky-linux-9-3-ga-release/

[8] What is EuroLinux? https://en.euro-linux.com/eurolinux/what-is/

[9] [PDF] The Winner of the Best CentOS Linux Replacement - Oracle https://www.oracle.com/a/ocom/docs/dsc-ol-centos-replacement.pdf