CentOS Server – The Free Linux Operating System for Your Servers
Organizations worldwide rely on the Linux operating system to run their server infrastructures. Among the most popular choices is the Red Hat Enterprise Linux distribution, which combines all the strengths of Linux and is specifically designed for use in large enterprises.
However, migrating existing server systems is a challenge for any IT department—both technically and financially. Organizations planning to deploy Linux servers at enterprise level often choose to take an intermediate step by using the free operating system CentOS.
Use CentOS servers as fully featured Linux-based web servers—ideal for gaining experience and testing technical capabilities. Learn more about CentOS here!
What Is a CentOS Server?
CentOS is short for “Community Enterprise Operating System.” This operating system is based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) but is available free of charge.
A CentOS server can be deployed in various ways, is available as a 32-bit version, compatible with ARM architectures, and receives regular updates for more than 10 years. This allows CentOS servers to be set up without additional licensing costs—however, official certifications and vendor support are not included.
CentOS Servers and Their Advantages
- Operating system for business-critical servers In enterprise environments, server infrastructures are primarily designed for continuous, fail-safe operation without disruption. CentOS is purpose-built for exactly this use case—it requires minimal maintenance and offers a high level of stability that benefits your entire server landscape.
- Flexible deployment options with CentOS Organizations planning a future transition to a Linux distribution such as the well-known Red Hat Enterprise Linux system can use CentOS to familiarize themselves with the environment at no additional cost. The operating system can be deployed as a 32-bit version or in a ported form on ARM-based servers. In addition to running CentOS on servers, it can also be used on standard workstations—made possible by the CentOS desktop environment.
- CentOS servers with binary compatibility to RHEL CentOS servers allow you to run applications that were originally designed for Red Hat Enterprise Linux. This makes it easy to evaluate whether a future migration or expansion to RHEL would be worthwhile.
- Long-term security and regular updates The operating system receives regular updates every six months and is supported with security updates for up to 10 years. This ensures long-term protection against malware and other threats. Security vulnerabilities are addressed via so-called “backports,” while the current OS version remains unchanged. Software upgrades are also possible, although CentOS must be reinstalled on the servers to do so.
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Setting up CentOS Server - How to set up your server correctly
- To set up CentOS Server correctly, there are three different installation options: 1. Installation via CD: Minimal installation, minimum set of packages 2. Installation via DVD: Installation with a selection of the most popular packages 3. Installation via ISO Image: All packages included in the installation
- Beginn the installation Once you have decided how you want to set up your CentOS servers, you can begin the installation process: 1. Boot from the CentOS installation DVD or using the ISO image 2. Select "Install CentOS 7" (version may differ) 3. Confirm with "Enter". 4. Select the language for the installation of your CentOS Server
- You can then customize the installation according to your needs. You have various options: 1. Adjust your time zone under "Date & Time". 2. Set up your preferred keyboard layout 3. Add additional languages to support your CentOS version
- You can complete the setup of your CentOS server by selecting "Installation Source" under "Software". Usually the correct medium for the installation is already detected, but you can also define a different source within your network.
- You can then select the preferred packages for the installation, set up a root password, and create different users. After rebooting the system, your CentOS Server is fully operational.
Software, Server and more – choose HAPPYWARE for professional IT
CentOS servers are ideal for organizations that want to learn the benefits of a Linux system like Red Hat Enterprise Linux. In addition to a strong OS, you also need powerful servers with which you can reach all the potential of a Linux system.
- Configure server according to your own requirements
Whether your prerequisite for a CentOS Server is for HPC provision, or to have high storage requirements and need energy efficiency, we build your servers the way you need them to be. - Rent or lease server
A smaller budget should not slow down your IT progression- contact us and we will put together suitable financing for your servers. - Appropriate warranty packages for every company
We have various warranty packages available for our customers. These can be individually tailored according to your needs.
If you would like to know more about how to set up CentOS Server correctly or which servers are suitable for a Linux operating system - we will be happy to advise you on the right equipment for your server systems and your entire IT.