What are CentOS and Ubuntu?
An operating system, or OS, is the main program that runs a computer. Windows is one. CentOS and Ubuntu are two kinds of Linux. Linux is a free operating system that most web servers use. CentOS and Ubuntu are called distributions, or distros. A distro is a version of Linux packaged by a team.
Note that CentOS is older software in its classic form. Newer systems such as AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux work in a similar way to it.
Main differences
| Factor | CentOS | Ubuntu |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Red Hat family | Debian family |
| Package tool | yum or dnf | apt |
| Package format | .rpm files | .deb files |
| Software versions | Older, very steady | Newer, updated often |
| Release style | Long and slow cycle | Regular releases, with long-term (LTS) versions |
| Firewall tool | firewalld | ufw |
| Security add-on | SELinux | AppArmor |
| Common on | Servers with control panels like cPanel | Cloud servers, developers, desktops |
| Learning help | Good guides for business use | Very large community and many tutorials |
| Ease for beginners | Medium | Easier |
What these mean for you
- Package tool. A package tool installs software for you with one command. Yum and apt do the same job with different words.
- Stability. CentOS changes slowly, so things rarely break. Ubuntu gives you newer features sooner.
- Support time. LTS means long-term support. Ubuntu LTS versions get updates for several years.
- Control panels. Some panels only work on certain systems. Check what your panel needs before you choose.
- Security. Both are safe when you keep them updated. SELinux is stricter but harder to learn.
How to choose
- Write down the software you need, such as a control panel or a special app.
- Check which system that software supports.
- If you are a beginner with no special needs, Ubuntu is easier to learn.
- If you need a steady, business-style server, pick a CentOS-style system.
- Still unsure? Ask Hostvento support which systems are offered on your plan.
Tip: Changing the OS later means a full reinstall. That deletes data on the server, so take a backup first.
Quick recap
- CentOS and Ubuntu are both Linux.
- CentOS uses yum or dnf. Ubuntu uses apt.
- CentOS is steady. Ubuntu is newer and friendlier.
- Pick based on the software you need.
- Back up before any change of OS.