CentOS Stream vs Ubuntu LTS: Choosing the Right Server OS in 2025
The Linux server landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years. One of the biggest shifts came when CentOS Linux, once a go-to solution for enterprises seeking Red Hat compatibility, was officially replaced by CentOS Stream.
This development reshaped how CentOS compares to Ubuntu, another popular Linux distribution widely used in cloud computing, development, and hosting. As of 2025, system administrators must carefully weigh their options based on stability, performance, and long-term maintenance.
In this guide, we break down the core differences between CentOS Stream and Ubuntu LTS, offering insights into which distribution makes the most sense for your infrastructure.
📌 CentOS Stream: What’s Changed?
CentOS Stream is no longer a downstream clone of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). Instead, it acts as a midstream development branch, receiving updates before they are incorporated into RHEL.
- Purpose: Testing platform for RHEL development.
- Drawback: Not designed for production-critical workloads due to update unpredictability.
- Result: Many former CentOS users have migrated to AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux, which provide 1:1 RHEL compatibility.
📌 Ubuntu LTS: The Reliable Standard
Ubuntu’s Long-Term Support (LTS) editions follow a predictable release cycle, offering five years of official support and extended maintenance options.
- Purpose: General-purpose and cloud-ready operating system.
- Advantage: Known for its ease of use, wide hardware compatibility, and strong ecosystem.
- Stability: LTS versions prioritize security and system consistency, making them ideal for production.
🧱 Architecture & Package Management
One of the first differences users will encounter is how these two systems are built and maintained.
| Feature | CentOS Stream | Ubuntu LTS |
| Base System | Derived from RHEL | Based on Debian |
| Package Format | RPM (with YUM/DNF) | DEB (with APT) |
| File System Layout | Standard Red Hat hierarchy | Debian-like directory structure |
CentOS users migrating to Ubuntu may need to adapt to a new package management system and CLI conventions, though the learning curve is modest.
🔄 Release Schedule and Update Policy
| Factor | CentOS Stream | Ubuntu LTS |
| Update Style | Rolling release (pre-RHEL updates) | Fixed schedule, every 2 years |
| Support Duration | Ongoing stream | 5 years + optional 5-year ESM |
| Best Use Case | Development, QA environments | Production servers, cloud deployments |
Ubuntu LTS clearly wins when it comes to long-term consistency. On the other hand, CentOS Stream is a better fit for users who want to preview or test future RHEL features.
🚀 Performance and Use in Cloud Environments
Ubuntu has gained popularity in the cloud and hosting space for good reason.
- CentOS Stream has a lightweight core and minimal default packages, but rolling updates may introduce performance fluctuations.
- Ubuntu LTS is optimized for cloud use, offering deep integration with major platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure.
Summary:
| Performance Criteria | Winner |
| Minimalist setup | CentOS |
| Predictable performance | Ubuntu |
| Cloud integration | Ubuntu |
🔒 Security Features and Access Control
Security is critical in server environments. Here’s how the two systems handle it:
| Security Layer | CentOS Stream | Ubuntu LTS |
| Default Framework | SELinux | AppArmor |
| Ease of Use | Complex configuration | More beginner-friendly |
| Update Frequency | Frequent, not pre-tested | Scheduled, well-documented |
While SELinux offers more granular security, it’s harder to manage for newer users. AppArmor, while less powerful, strikes a balance between protection and usability.
📚 Documentation & Community Support
Ubuntu has built one of the largest open-source communities, making troubleshooting and learning easier.
| Factor | CentOS Stream | Ubuntu LTS |
| Community Size | Fragmented post-EOL | Large, active |
| Official Documentation | Decentralized | Centralized & robust |
| Paid Support Options | RHEL (separately) | Canonical |
Many former CentOS users now rely on AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux communities, while Ubuntu continues to benefit from consistent Canonical-led development and support.
✅ Pros and Cons
CentOS Stream: Pros
- Follows latest RHEL development.
- Ideal for testing new packages or features.
- Familiar environment for RHEL veterans.
CentOS Stream: Cons
- Not suited for stable, production use.
- Less community cohesion after the CentOS Linux shift.
- Frequent updates can cause breakages.
Ubuntu LTS: Pros
- Predictable release and update model.
- Supported by a huge community.
- Excellent compatibility with cloud and virtualization platforms.
- Easier for new Linux users to adopt.
Ubuntu LTS: Cons
- Some packages may be slightly behind cutting-edge.
- Transitioning from RPM to APT may take adjustment.
- Less strict security by default (compared to SELinux enforcement).
🔄 Alternatives to CentOS Stream
If you’re not ready to move to Ubuntu but need a stable, RHEL-compatible OS, consider:
- AlmaLinux – Maintained by a non-profit foundation; mirrors RHEL releases closely.
- Rocky Linux – Founded by the original CentOS co-founder; built for enterprise use.
- Debian – The base for Ubuntu, known for its rock-solid stability and conservative updates.
🧭 Final Decision: CentOS or Ubuntu?
Here’s a quick decision matrix to help:
| You Need… | Choose… |
| Production-grade server OS | Ubuntu LTS |
| Compatibility with RHEL infrastructure | AlmaLinux/Rocky |
| Testing platform for Red Hat development | CentOS Stream |
| Strong community and easy documentation | Ubuntu LTS |
| Frequent updates and newest packages | CentOS Stream |
🧠 Final Thoughts
The Linux server ecosystem in 2025 is vastly different from what it was just a few years ago. With CentOS Linux discontinued, users must reevaluate their choices.
- For those prioritizing stability, cloud readiness, and strong community support, Ubuntu LTS remains one of the most dependable platforms available.
- Those needing RHEL compatibility for existing infrastructure should lean toward AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux.
- CentOS Stream plays a valuable role in development and QA workflows but is not ideal for live production environments.
Making the right choice depends on your specific needs, but with a clear understanding of each platform’s strengths, you can build a reliable, secure, and efficient server environment.