Compatibility
Rocky Linux Compatibility
Rocky Linux is bug-for-bug compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), while also being designed for compatibility with other RHEL-based distributions such as CentOS and Oracle Linux. It shares a common codebase with these distributions and uses the same package manager, Yellowdog Updater, Modified (YUM), which makes it easy to install and manage software packages.
Additionally, Rocky Linux can run third-party software applications that are compatible with Linux in general. This compatibility with other operating systems and applications makes Rocky Linux a versatile choice for enterprise and high performance computing (HPC) users requiring a stable and secure platform.
Rocky Linux and Red Hat Enterprise Linux
Rocky Linux is an open source distribution designed to provide complete compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). This compatibility enables every application, tool, and process that runs on RHEL to also run on Rocky Linux.
This focus on compatibility helps organizations seamlessly transition to an open source solution without the need for significant retraining or changes to workflow. This can lead to cost savings and the flexibility to use open source software without vendor lock-in.
Compatibility with RHEL is achieved through open source standards and an extensive testing process to ensure reliability. Rocky Linux works closely with its open source community to identify and resolve compatibility issues, ensuring that users have access to a stable and secure operating system.
Compatibility with RHEL and CentOS means organizations can continue to use the same tools and processes they have relied on in the past, making their migration to Rocky Linux a smooth and seamless experience.
Rocky Linux compatibility is an essential feature for businesses and organizations that rely on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) for their operations but are seeking alternatives due to recent changes in RHEL's licensing model. This compatibility allows users to take advantage of the stability, security, and performance of RHEL while enjoying the benefits of a community-driven, accessible, and open source distribution.
Furthermore, since Rocky Linux is designed to be a downstream rebuild of RHEL, users can expect the same level of reliability as RHEL.
Overall, Rocky Linux compatibility provides users with a reliable and seamless migration path while maintaining compatibility with the software and applications they rely on.
Rocky Linux Compatibility FAQs
Why is compatibility with RHEL important?
It enables organizations the ability to continue using the same tools and processes while adopting an open source solution. This can lead to significant cost savings, as well as the freedom to use open source software without vendor lock-in.
How easy is it to migrate from CentOS to Rocky Linux?
Rocky Linux is bug-for-bug compatible with CentOS, making it a smooth migration from CentOS to Rocky Linux. Explore our migration page for additional information.
Is Rocky Linux compatible with CentOS 6?
Rocky Linux begins at version 8; upgrading from CentOS 6 would require first migrating to CentOS 8.
Is Rocky Linux compatible with CentOS 7?
Rocky Linux begins at version 8; upgrading from CentOS 7 would require first migrating to CentOS 8.
Is Rocky Linux compatible with CentOS 8?
Yes, CentOs 8 and Rocky Linux are fully compatible. Visit our migration page to learn more about transitioning to Rocky Linuix from CentOS 8.
Is Rocky Linux compatible with Oracle Linux?
Yes, Rocky Linux is compatible and offers a smooth migration process from Oracle Linux to Rocky Linux.
Is Rocky Linux compatible with CentOS Stream?
Yes, Rocky Linux is compatible and offers a smooth migration process from CentOS Stream to Rocky Linux.
Can I use my existing applications on Rocky Linux?
Yes, if the applications are RHEL-compatible, they should run on Rocky Linux. This is one of the key benefits of compatibility with RHEL.
Is Rocky Linux as stable and secure as RHEL?
Yes, Rocky Linux is designed to provide the same stability and security users require from other Enterprise Linux distributions.