PC & MOBILE

Operating Systems and

Who Should Use Them
By Moe Long / February 13, 2017 13-02-2017 / 12 minutes

Moe Long
132 articles

Moe Long is a writer and

editor covering
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entertainment. He
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earned an English B.A.
from the University of
North Carolina at Chapel
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addition to MUO, he has
been featured in
htpcBeginner,
Bubbleblabber, The
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Linux operating systems are exceptionally prevalent and
wide-ranging. While certain Linux distros are suitable for
power users, others are simpler, and perfect for switching
from Windows. Linux distributions often bene t from
strong community resources.

Although the Linux operating systems offer excellent

desktop environments, Linux can be excellent for server
set ups as well. Linux typically offers enhanced
permissions, increased exibility, and stability.

Therefore, Linux distros are ideal server landscapes. Check

out the 12 best Linux server operating systems and who
should use them.

What Is a Linux Server Operating

System?
What differentiates a Linux server operating system from a
general Linux distribution? Consider server hardware.
Servers are essentially computers with specialized
speci cations. For instance, server hardware ensures
maximum uptime, ef ciency, and security. Additionally,
servers balance computing power with power
consumption. Similarly, Linux server operating systems
prioritize security and resource consumption.
A Linux server operating system serves content to client
PC & MOBILE
devices. Accordingly, server operating systems feature
tools for simple server creation. Because servers Latest
commonly run headless, the graphical user interface (GUI) Giveaways!
in a Linux server operating system remains less important. Sony Xperia XZ2
Review: Fantastic
According to IDC, hardware sales data indicates that 28 Camera, Unique
percent of servers are Linux-based. However this likely Design
doesn’t account for home labbers. While there are
dedicated Linux server operating systems, you may roll Meural Canvas:
your own. The key here is to use a Long Term Service (LTS)
The Digital Frame
for Art Lovers
iteration and install your desired software. LTS avors (Review and
provide stability and a longer support cycle. Giveaway)

Mi Band 3: Don’t
Buy a Fitbit Until
You’ve Seen This

When selecting a Linux server operating system, also

consider your use. Using your Linux computer as a media
server differs from setting up a game server.

Using Your Linux Computer as a

Media Server (Part 2) Trending
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Sony Xperia XZ2

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Camera, Unique
1. Ubuntu Server Design

ANDROID

15 Samsung Gear
Apps That’ll Make
You Feel Like a…

LINUX , DIY

7 New Raspbian
Ubuntu is arguably the most well-known Linux operating Features to Start
system. With a plethora of Ubuntu derivatives, it’s a stable Using on Your
distribution. Ubuntu and its variants offer excellent user Raspberry…
experiences. Ubuntu Server is available in two versions:
LTS and a rolling-release. The LTS Ubuntu Server release
boasts a ve year support cycle. Although the support
cycle isn’t ve years, the non-LTS variant features nine
PC & MOBILE
months of security and maintenance updates.

While Ubuntu and Ubuntu Server are pretty similar, Server

offers different amenities. Notably, Ubuntu Server provides
OpenStack Mitaka, Nginx, and LXD. Such inclusions cater
to system administrators. Using Ubuntu Server, you can
spin up web servers, deploy containers, and more.
Moreover, it’s server-ready out-of-the-box.

Although it’s not a server distro, Ubuntu LTS does feature a

ve year support cycle. I’m currently using Ubuntu 16.04
LTS to run a dedicated Plex server as well as a Linux game
server. LTS distros can function perfectly well as Linux
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Who should use this: If you’re new to Linux or server
for Mac Users
operating systems, Ubuntu is a great choice. Ubuntu
LINUX
remains one of the most popular Linux distros in part
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because of its user friendliness. Accordingly, Ubuntu Linux Anti-Virus
Server is a fantastic entry-level Linux server operating Programs
system. It’s superb as a media server, game server, or email
LINUX , SECURITY
server. More advanced server set ups are feasible with
6 Awesome DIY
Ubuntu Server, but it’s de nitely a go-to for basic servers Security Camera
and novice users. Clients for Linux

2. openSUSE

SUSE Linux debuted in 1993. In 2015, open-source variant

openSUSE migrated toward SUSE Linux Enterprise (SLE).
There are two openSUSE derivatives: Leap and
Tumbleweed. Leap features longer release cycles whereas
Tumbleweed is the rolling release. Tumbleweed is better
for power users with its up-to-date packages like the Linux
Kernel and SAMBA. Leap is better for stability. Updates
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bolster the operating system.
Latest Articles
Default tools posit openSUSE as a fantastic Linux server
IPHONE AND IPAD
operating system. openSUSE includes openQA for
How to Master and
automated testing, Kiwi for Linux image deployment on Expand Your
several platforms, YaST for Linux con guration, and the iPhone’s Share
comprehensive package manager Open Build Service. In Menu
abandoning its previous nine month release cycle and
ENTERTAINMENT
focusing on stability like SLE, openSUSE became a viable
The 15 Best Spotify
Linux server environment. CIO even dubbed openSUSE “… Playlists for the
the CentOS and Debian of SUSE.” Summer

Who should use this: openSUSE is more suited to power PROMOTED

, SOCIAL MEDIA
users like system administrators. It’s great as a web server,
Achieve Real
home server, or home server/web server combo. System Instagram
administrators bene t from tools like Kiwi, YaST, OBS, and Follower Growth
openQA. The versatility of openSUSE makes it one of the
With Combin
best Linux server operating systems. In addition to solid
server capabilities, openSUSE does sport a lovely desktop
environment. For more basic servers, openSUSE is usable
but a bit overkill. Still not convinced? Check out these six
reasons to use openSUSE.

6 Reasons You Should Choose

openSUSE and the Geeko
There are good reasons openSUSE continues to
attract users, and here are some of them. Maybe
you will be the next person to fall in love with the
Geeko.

READ MORE Latest Free PDFs

3. Oracle Linux

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Image Credit: Wikipedia

If you did a double take when reading “Oracle Linux,” you’re

not alone. Oracle Linux is a Linux distribution powered by
tech giant Oracle. It’s available with two kernels. One
features the Red Hat Compatible Kernel (RHCK). This is the
same kernel as found in Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL).
Oracle Linux is certi ed to work on lots of hardware from
the likes of Lenovo, IBM, and HP. Oracle Linux features
Ksplice for enhanced kernel security. There’s also support
for Oracle, OpenStack, Linux containers, and Docker. It’s
branded with an Oracle theme including an Oracle penguin.

There is support, but it’s paid. Unless you’re running Oracle

Linux in an enterprise environment it’s not worth the price.
If you need to spin up a public or private cloud, Oracle Linux
is a stellar server operating system. Alternately, try Oracle
Linux if you simply need the Oracle-branded Linux penguin.

Who should use this: Oracle Linux is best for datacenters

or creating clouds with OpenStack. More advanced home
server users and enterprise-level settings are best for
Oracle Linux.
4. Container Linux (Formerly
PC & MOBILE

CoreOS)

CoreOS rebranded to Container Linux in 2016. As the name

suggests, Container Linux is a Linux operating system built
for deploying containers. There’s a concentration on
simplifying containerized deployments. Container Linux is
a superb operating system for secure, highly scalable
deployments. Clustered deploys are easy and this distro
includes means for service discovery. There’s
documentation and support for Kubernetes, Docker, and
rkt.

However, there’s no package manager. All apps must run

inside containers, so containerization is mandatory.
Nevertheless, if you’re working with containers Container
Linux is the best Linux server operating for a cluster
infrastructure. It offers an etcd which is a daemon running
across each computer within a cluster. You’ve got install
exibility too. In addition to an on-premise installation, you
can run Container Linux on virtualization mediums like
Azure, VMware, and Amazon EC2.

Who should use this: Container Linux is best for servers in

a cluster infrastructure or with containerized deploys. This
likely won’t mean the average home labber. But with
of cial Docker images from the likes of Plex, Container
Linux can function as anything from a basic home media
server to complex clustered set up. Ultimately, use
Container Linux if you’re comfortable with containers.
Along with openSUSE, Container Linux is one of the best
new and updated Linux operating systems you should try.
 The Newest Linux Operating Systems
PC & MOBILE

for Every Niche

Linux operating systems are constantly updated,
with some are more substantial than others. Not
sure whether to upgrade? Check out these new
Linux operating systems and to see if you should
try them.

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5. CentOS

Image Credit: Wikipedia

CentOS provides a stable environment. It’s an open-source

derivative of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). Thus,
CentOS delivers an enterprise-class server experience.
The Red Hat sponsored operating system uses the exact
source code as found in RHEL. CentOS employs the RPM
package manager. In 2010, survey data found that about
30 percent of all Linux servers operated on CentOS.
There’s a reason: it’s a very stable server environment with
Red Hat sponsorship.

Notably, CentOS functions well on mainframes. For users

that prefer a GUI, KDE and GNOME are both available.
CentOS can be used as a straightforward desktop
environment. Because of Red Hat support and a thriving
community, CentOS remains bug free.

Who should use this: CentOS provides the functionality

and stability of Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Therefore it’s
perfect for advanced Linux server operating system. Use
CentOS if you’re looking for a free RHEL alternative.
However CentOS is fairly beginner friendly because it
retains a package manager. Overall, CentOS is best as a
PC & MOBILE
free Red Hat Enterprise Linux alternative.

6. Arch Linux

Image Credit: jasonwryan via Flickr.com

Many servers limit power consumption. Reducing power

draw is a major bene t particularly for always-on machines.
Similarly, Linux server operating systems should consume
few resources. Allotting resources properly is key for
maximum uptime and server ef ciency. Many Linux
distributions use fewer resources than Windows or macOS
counterparts. Arch is a simple, lightweight distribution that
abides by the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) principle.

There’s a dedicated server section of the Arch Linux Wiki.

You can learn all about con guring Arch Linux as a server
operating system. While there’s not a pre-packaged server
release available for download, this Wiki provides the steps
to creating your own. You can install popular server
software including MySQL, Apache, Samba, and PHP for
Arch.

Who should use this: Arch Linux is a great all-around Linux

server operating system, ideal for turning an old PC into a
server. But although it’s lightweight, Arch is equally as a
functional on beefy hardware. Additionally, Arch Linux is
best for users with technical knowhow since you’ll have to
set up Arch as a server.

7. Mageia
 PC & MOBILE

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Mageia is a Linux operating system that prioritizes security

and stability. It’s a fork of Mandriva Linux that debuted in
2010. A 2012 PC World praised Mageia, now on its fth
iteration. Although there are many Linux operating
systems, there’s also a big list of Linux desktop
environments. Mageia includes a bevy of environments
such as KDE, GNOME, Xfce, and LXDE.

Rather than MySQL, Mageia includes MariaDB. Server-

centric inclusions like the 389 Directory Server and Kolab
Groupware Server make Mageia a stellar Linux server
operating system.

Who should use this: Mageia is a dependable Linux server

operating system. It’s loaded with tools like MariaDB and
Kolab Groupware Server. Plus, Mageia and boasts a stable,
secure environment. Users who require a GUI should
consider Mageia because of its myriad of desktop
environments.

8. ClearOS
ClearOS is speci cally engineered for servers, gateway
PC & MOBILE
machines, and network systems. The standard install
features security enhancements. There’s a default rewall,
bandwidth management tools, a mail server, and intrusion
detection. ClearOS 7 Community Edition sports a
whopping 75 apps and tools.

While there are paid ClearOS tiers, the Community Edition

remains free. Additionally, ClearOS updates are completely
free from upstream sources. However, these free updates
aren’t tested.

Who should use this: ClearOS is a dedicated Linux server

operating. Its wide-ranging app store posits ClearOS as a
distro for Linux gurus. Hobbyists and Linux specialists need
only apply. Novice users, opt for a different server
distribution.

9. Slackware

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Slackware is a long-standing Linux server distribution. The

rst iteration debuted in 1993. According to the Slackware
Linux website, the project goal is “the most ‘UNIX-like’
Linux distribution.” By default, Slackware boots into a
command line interface.

A full Slackware installation features C and C++, the X

Window System, a mail server, web server, FTP server, and
news server. Moreover, Slackware is so lightweight that it
brags compatibility with Pentium systems. Continued
releases ensure stability and simplicity.

Who should use this: Slackware Linux is best for seasoned

Linux professionals. There are package managers,
pkgtools and slackpkg. However, since Slackware by
default boots into a command line environment, it’s a more
advanced Linux server operating system. Furthermore,
PC & MOBILE
there’s a bit of complexity in its simplicity. You really have to
know your way around a Linux environment to thrive in
Slackware.

10. Gentoo

Image Credit: Gentoo.org

Gentoo differs from many Linux distributions. Rather than

the traditional release model, Gentoo features a modular
design. Thus, users pick the installed features. This is
precisely why Gentoo stands as a top Linux server
operating system.

Gentoo: A Linux Distribution Where

You Compile Your Own Optimized
So ware
The sheer number of different ways in which Linux
can be run is astounding, as there are plenty of
choices to go around. While there are plenty of
distributions which rely on either the .deb...

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Each install is unique. Users can build a kernel which

affords much more control. Therefore, aspects such as
memory consumption may be controlled for a server.
Because of this modular design and exibility, Gentoo
achieves major popularity with Linux pros. System
administrators notably appreciate the tailored approach
that Gentoo affords.

Who should use this: Gentoo is best for tech savvy users
and system administrators. Although Gentoo may be used
by beginners, it’s less entry-level than the average Ubuntu
derivative. But documentation is superb and Gentoo
PC & MOBILE
bene ts from a thriving community.

11. Fedora

Image Credit: Wikipedia

If you’re looking for a fresh Linux server operating system,

try Fedora. With the support of Red Hat, the Fedora Project
receives regular updates. Upstream communities
contribute frequently. Fedora comes in several avors.
Workstation caters to general users and comes with a
desktop environment. By default Fedora Workstation
arrives with GNOME, but others are also available. Fedora
Server focuses on, well, servers.

The default Fedora Server install lacks a GUI. However, you

may install one if you don’t plan to run a headless server.
The Server edition boasts a multitude of tools. There’s the
Cockpit system management dashboard. Database
services like PostgreSQL are included in Fedora Server.

Who should use this: Seasoned Linux developers and

system administrators should pick Fedora Server. Its lack
of a default desktop environment and enterprise-class
features mean Fedora is better for advanced servers.
Debating between Fedora, CentOS, and openSUSE? Check
out this comparison of openSUSE, Fedora, and CentOS.

Fedora vs. openSUSE vs. CentOS:

Which Distribution Should You Use?
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12. Debian PC & MOBILE

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Okay, so Debian lacks a speci c server release.

Nevertheless, Debian is one of the best Linux server
operating systems available. Because Debian launched in
1993 and saw its rst stable release in 1996, it’s incredibly
secure. Many Linux distributions including Ubuntu are
Debian-based. Why use Debian as the foundation of
another operating system? Stability.

Accordingly, Debian is often used for servers because of its

time-tested resilience. Debian features a package
manager, APT tools, and various frontends such as GDebi.
So while Debian doesn’t come with a server avor, it’s
perfect for a do-it-yourself Linux server operating system.
Debian boasts impressive application compatibility,
security, and stability.

Who should use this: Debian offers a fantastic server

environment for two parties. If you’re looking for a basic
server, like a mail, web, game, or media server, Debian is
pretty simple to set up. Alternately, more advanced users
with speci c server needs should consider Debian.
However, this approach does require DIY work. Learn more
about Debian vs. Ubuntu, and how far Ubuntu has
progressed.
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The Best Linux Server Operating

Systems
Although you can nd many Linux server operating
systems, each is best for a different set of users. Moreover,
a non-server LTS release functions perfectly well as a Linux
server operating system. Debian is a great example. While
it’s not speci cally a server distro, Debian boasts the
characteristics of a server distribution. Namely, stability
and security.

For beginners or merely simple server set up, I’d

recommend any Debian-based distro or Ubuntu derivative.
For all of my media and game servers, I use Ubuntu
derivatives. This affords maximum compatibility with the
software I run, and allows me to create home theatre
PC/media server combos.

Which Linux server operating systems are you using?

Image Credit: Scanrail1 via Shutterstock.com

Explore more about: Apache Server, Linux.

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