Red Hat Enterprise Linux
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Enterprise Linux distributions
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is the most popular enterprise distribution of Linux. Another well-known distribution, especially in Europe, is Novell's SuSe Linux Enterprise Server (SLES).
Linux (and therefore Red Hat Enterprise Linux) is Open Source software - so why pay for Enterprise Linux?
- Platform Stability: Enterprise Linux has a longer release cycle (well over a year between new versions) compared to non-Enterprise alternatives. Most businesses require a longer release cycle for a proper test and implementation phase between major releases.
- Quality Assurance: Enterprise Linux has undergone extensive QA and testing, resulting in a stable platform for your business needs.
- Vendor Support: Enterprise Linux distributions are typically supported for at least 5 years.
- ISV Support: software such as Oracle is only officially supported on certain Enterprise Linux distributions.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux
Versions
Red Hat Enterprise Linux is available in two versions: Server and Desktop. For large servers, there is Red Hat Enterprise Linux Advanced Platform. This supports hosts with >2 physical CPU sockets and unlimited amounts of memory.
Support
Red Hat offers 3 levels of support: Basic, Standard and Premium. The proper support level depends on your business requirements.
Free Enterprise Linux Clones
Usually, businesses will opt for a support contract with their Enterprise Linux vendor. For test installations, or for use at home, there are several "Clones" available that come without support, but are functionally identical to their original counterpart.
- CentOS - The Community Enterprise OS
See Also
- Red Hat - miscellaneous tips