Top 7 Commercial Linux Distributions

Linux has become a cornerstone of the open-source software movement, offering a powerful and versatile platform for various computing needs. While there are many free and community-driven Linux distributions available, some commercial Linux distributions cater specifically to the needs of enterprise users, providing comprehensive support, reliability, and additional features that make them a preferred choice for business-critical operations.

In this article, we’ll explore the top seven commercial Linux distributions that have earned a reputation for their reliability and support.

1. Red Hat Enterprise Linux:

Red Hat Enterprise Linux, commonly known as RHEL, is one of the most well-established and widely used commercial Linux distributions. Developed by Red Hat Inc., RHEL is tailored for the commercial market, offering robust performance, security, and support. With its long-term support (LTS) releases and certification programs, Red Hat provides a stable and trusted environment for businesses to run their applications. The distribution also benefits from Red Hat’s extensive ecosystem of software and services.

2. Ubuntu:

Ubuntu is a Debian-based Linux distribution published by Canonical Ltd. While there is a free version of Ubuntu, the company offers commercial support for an enterprise-class variant called Ubuntu Server. Canonical provides a range of services, including 24/7 support and security updates, making Ubuntu a compelling choice for businesses seeking a reliable Linux server platform.

3. SUSE Linux Enterprise:

SUSE Linux Enterprise, developed by SUSE, is a versatile commercial Linux distribution designed for servers, mainframes, and workstations. SUSE offers a range of tools and features to support mission-critical workloads and is known for its excellent system management capabilities, including support for containerization and orchestration technologies like Docker and Kubernetes.

4. elementaryOS:

While not as focused on enterprise use as some other distributions on this list, elementaryOS deserves a mention for its consumer-oriented approach. elementaryOS is based on Ubuntu and showcases the Pantheon desktop environment. It provides a sleek and user-friendly experience, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to offer a Linux-based computing environment for their employees.

5. Oracle Linux:

Oracle Linux is an interesting commercial distribution that is compiled from the source code of Red Hat Enterprise Linux. However, Oracle replaces Red Hat branding with its own and optimizes the distribution to run Oracle software efficiently. This makes Oracle Linux an attractive option for organizations that rely on Oracle’s database and enterprise software products.

6. Pop!_OS:

Pop!_OS is a minimalist Linux distribution tailored for developers, created by System 76, a Linux hardware manufacturer. While it may not have the extensive support offerings of some other commercial distributions, it caters to developers with a focus on simplicity and performance, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a Linux environment optimized for their workflow.

7. Deepin:

Deepin is a popular Chinese Linux distribution that is based on Debian and is known for its user-friendly desktop environment. It offers a visually appealing and intuitive user interface, making it an attractive choice for businesses that prioritize a user-centric approach. Deepin also includes a range of pre-installed proprietary applications, enhancing the out-of-the-box experience for users.

In conclusion, the choice of a commercial Linux distribution for your business will depend on your specific requirements and preferences. Whether you prioritize support, reliability, user-friendliness, or specialized optimizations for certain software, there is likely a commercial Linux distribution that meets your needs. The distributions mentioned in this article have proven their worth in various aspects and have gained the trust of many organizations across the globe.

Ultimately, the best distribution for your enterprise will depend on your unique use case and priorities.

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