CloudLinux vs. AlmaLinux – Which One is Best as a Web Server OS?

Just like a website is worthless without web hosting; similarly, a server is just a piece of technology that does not know how to interface with the world without an operating system.

Selecting the right operating system is essential when setting up a hosting server. The benefits of doing so include increased security, better performance, and more stability. With the right OS in place, you can be sure your server can handle any amount of traffic. Additionally, you’ll benefit from all the latest security features and patches. Finally, it will protect your data and keep your server running smoothly.

Since an operating system is a crucial aspect of web hosting, it is vital to have in-depth knowledge of which OS should run on your server regardless of what web hosting you purchase – Shared Web Hosting, VPS Hosting, or Dedicated Servers. You must also know the importance and benefits of the OS.

Today, the most popular OS include CloudLinux and AlmaLinux. However, each has its benefits and drawbacks.

Let’s review different aspects of CloudLinux v/s AlmaLinux, to help you make an informed decision in selecting the right option.

Table of Contents:

1. What is CloudLinux OS
2. Benefits of using CloudLinux
3. What is AlmaLinux OS
4. Benefits of AlmaLinux OS
5. CloudLinux v/s AlmaLinux – Comparison
6. Conclusion

What is CloudLinux OS?

First released in January 2010, CloudLinux OS is a Linux-based operating system designed for shared hosting to give the most stable and secure platform. It provides a lightweight, fast, and easy-to-use operating system that can be installed on shared hosting servers without problems. CloudLinux also offers a variety of advanced features that make it an excellent choice for hosting servers.

Since an operating system is one of the most important factors when choosing a shared hosting server, it should be fast and lightweight to handle the demands of the web server and other applications. CloudLinux offers all of the benefits of a traditional Linux distribution and is specifically designed for shared hosting environments. Hence it is speedy, which makes it perfect for use on shared hosting servers.

CloudLinux virtualizes each account utilizing the Lightweight Virtual Environment (LVE) feature. Each LVE allots some resources, such as memory, CPU, etc., which are separated from server resources. Also, there is no fear of symlink attacks with CloudLinux OS as it secures through KernelCare “Extra” Patchset. 

In shared hosting, there are chances that the website may crash because all websites are hosted on the same server. However, CloudLinux OS won’t let that happen.

Let us review this example to understand how CloudLinux OS prevents websites from crashing.

In shared hosting, many websites receive a small amount of traffic, while some receive a large amount of traffic. Suppose a website gets heavy traffic all of a sudden; it will begin to utilize extra resources such as CPU or memory.

But despite this, it would not affect other websites because rather than slowing down the whole server and causing any failure, only that particular LVE will slow down. Furthermore, the LVE will also prevent attacks and stealing or hacking private information between the user and the server.

Another factor to consider when choosing a shared hosting server is the operating system’s compatibility with the hardware used on the server.

Since CloudLinux has been explicitly designed for use on shared hosting, so it is fully compatible with most hardware brands and models. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about regarding compatibility issues when selecting a shared hosting provider.

Benefits of using CloudLinux

CloudLinux is a Linux distribution that is built on the cloud. It offers several benefits, including:

1. It separates each user to avoid affecting each other.
2. Users cannot see any private information and configuration files.
3. Users can easily monitor and control RAM, CPU, and I/O usage.
4. It monitors and operates MySQL usage.
5. It offers a CageFS file system.
6. End-users can select PHP versions – 5.2 to 5.6; 7.0 to 7.4; 8.0 & 8.1
7. It averts symbolic links attacks.
8. It supports all the control panels.
9. It is secure and stable.

Check out more benefits of CloudLinux OS here.

What is AlmaLinux OS?

AlmaLinux, first launched in March 2021, is the open-source Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). 

CloudLinux decided to launch its open-source operating system called AlmaLinux when CentOS announced that it would no longer continue to create a stable operating system.

AlmaLinux provides a high level of transparency, as its governance is public. It frequently publishes new updates, releases guides, source codes, and how-to guides for installing software on AlmaLinux, so people can easily update anything.

In addition, AlmaLinux offers a migration tool to migrate to AlmaLinux and provides users with source code.

However, the saying “Old is Gold” is somehow relevant here since AlmaLinux is new and hasn’t gained much popularity. Hence, it becomes difficult for people to move to AlmaLinux OS.

AlmaLinux is a versatile operating system that can be used for various servers. It is stable, easy to use, and reliable on all servers, such as web servers, file servers, database servers, and email servers. In addition, it is a secure and reliable platform for businesses of all sizes.

Benefits of AlmaLinux OS

The primary benefits of AlmaLinux OS include the following – 

1. A robust and stable kernel.
2. Comprehensive security features.
3. A wide range of supported hardware.
4. An easy-to-use package management system.

AlmaLinux OS is an ideal choice for businesses and organizations that require a stable and secure server platform.

CloudLinux vs. AlmaLinux – Comparison

Cloudlinux is a powerful and versatile operating system to improve the performance and stability of websites and servers. It also offers a wide range of tools and features that optimizes website and server performance. In addition, it is based on the Linux kernel providing a more stable and secure environment for running servers and web applications.

AlmaLinux is a good choice for enterprises that need stability as it is a reliable Linux distribution. It is also compatible with RHEL, which makes it easy to deploy in existing infrastructure. Furthermore, AlmaLinux provides long-term support so enterprises can rely on it for mission-critical applications. The project’s goal is to create an operating system that is easy to use yet powerful enough for advanced users. It also includes tools to manage devices and applications.

Conclusion 

In this article, we covered and compared various critical features of CloudLinux and AlmaLinux to help you make an informed decision before buying the best Linux distribution that suits your requirement.

 Therefore, based on our assessment, we can say that CloudLinux is perfect for a shared hosting environment for businesses that need a high level of security and compliance.

On the other hand, AlmaLinux may be better suited for users who want more control over their system settings.