Linux Nest

Author: martin

  • Overwatch 2 on Linux: The Complete Gamer’s Guide

    Linux gamers, rejoice! Overwatch 2, Blizzard Entertainment’s latest team-based shooter, is now within your reach. While not officially supported on Linux, you can still join the fray by leveraging the Wine compatibility layer and Bottles app. This guide will take you through the steps to get Overwatch 2 up and running on your Linux system.

    Preparing Your Linux System for Overwatch 2

    Before diving into the installation process, ensure your Linux system is optimized for gaming. Check out our guide on optimizing Linux for Gaming to set up your system.

    Installing Overwatch 2 on Linux

    Step 1: Downloading and Setting Up Bottles

    Bottles is an application that simplifies the use of Wine, making Windows applications more accessible on Linux.

    1. Download Bottles: If you’re using a Steam Deck, switch to Desktop Mode and find Bottles in the Discover app. For other Linux distros, download it from the Bottles official website.
    2. Create a Gaming Bottle: Open Bottles and create a new Bottle specifically for gaming. This isolated environment ensures better compatibility and performance for your games.
    3. Install Caffe Runner: In Bottles settings, go to Runners and download Caffe, a runner optimized for gaming applications.

    Step 2: Installing Battle.net and Overwatch 2

    Blizzard’s Battle.net is the gateway to installing and playing Overwatch 2.

    1. Install Battle.net: Inside your new gaming Bottle, navigate to the Installers section and install Battle.net.
    2. Install Overwatch 2: Once Battle.net is installed, use it to download and install Overwatch 2.

    Step 3: Configuring Bottles for Steam Deck (Optional)

    If you’re using a Steam Deck, you can integrate Bottles into Steam for a smoother experience.

    1. Add Bottles to Steam: You can add Bottles to Steam to launch it in Gaming Mode. This step makes it easier to manage and run Overwatch 2 directly from your Steam library.
    2. Accessing Overwatch 2 in Gaming Mode: Once added, find Overwatch 2 in the Non-Steam section of your Library in Gaming Mode.

    Post-Installation: Performance and Gameplay

    Initially, you might experience performance lags due to shader compilation. Be patient as this is a one-time process, and performance will improve significantly afterward. For the best experience, avoid playing Ranked games until you’ve familiarized yourself with each map and allowed most shaders to compile.

    Enhancing Your Overwatch 2 Experience on Linux

    • Customizing Settings: Dive into the settings to tailor Overwatch 2’s performance to your system’s capabilities.
    • Using Gamepads or Controllers: If you’re not on Steam Deck, ensure your controllers or gamepads are configured correctly for the best gaming experience.

    Keeping Overwatch 2 Updated

    Regular updates are crucial for smooth gameplay and new features. Since Overwatch 2 is installed via Battle.net in Bottles, ensure you regularly check for game updates within the Battle.net client.

    Need More Help?

    If you’re looking for additional tips on gaming on Linux or encountering specific issues, our article Linux Gaming Troubleshooting Tips can provide further assistance.

    Conclusion

    Playing Overwatch 2 on Linux might seem daunting, but with the right tools and some patience, it’s entirely feasible. Follow this guide to enjoy one of the most popular multiplayer games on your Linux system.

    Happy gaming, and welcome to the world of Overwatch 2 on Linux!

  • Jellyfin on Ubuntu 22.04: Your Ultimate Media Server Setup Guide

    Jellyfin on Ubuntu 22.04: Your Ultimate Media Server Setup Guide

    Transform your Ubuntu 22.04 into a powerful media server with Jellyfin! This open-source software offers a polished way to organize and stream your media. Here’s a detailed guide on installing and setting up Jellyfin on Ubuntu 22.04.

    Step-by-Step Installation

    1. Adding the GPG Key

    Secure your package downloads by adding Jellyfin’s public GPG key:

    sudo apt install apt-transport-https ca-certificates gnupg2 curl git -ycurl -fsSL https://repo.jellyfin.org/ubuntu/jellyfin_team.gpg.key | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/jellyfin.gpg

    2. Adding the Jellyfin Repository

    Add the Jellyfin repository to your system:

    echo "deb [arch=$(dpkg --print-architecture)] https://repo.jellyfin.org/$(awk -F'=' '/^ID=/{print $NF}' /etc/os-release) $(awk -F'=' '/^VERSION_CODENAME=/{print $NF}' /etc/os-release) main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/jellyfin.list

    3. Updating System Repositories

    Update your system’s package list:

    sudo apt update

    4. Installing Jellyfin

    Install Jellyfin:

    sudo apt install jellyfin

    Post-Installation Setup

    5. Starting the Jellyfin Service

    Enable and start Jellyfin’s service:

    sudo systemctl enable jellyfinsudo systemctl start jellyfin

    6. Configuring Firewall

    Ensure Jellyfin’s default port (8096) is open in your firewall:

    sudo ufw allow 8096

    7. Accessing Jellyfin

    Access the Jellyfin web interface via 127.0.0.1:8096 or ip-address:8096 on your browser.

    8. Creating Admin Account

    Set up an admin username and password for Jellyfin.

    9. Adding Media Libraries

    Add media content paths to Jellyfin for streaming.

    10. Logging into Jellyfin

    Use your credentials to log into the Jellyfin server.

    Maintenance and Upgrades

    11. Updating Jellyfin

    Regularly update Jellyfin using:

    sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

    12. Uninstalling Jellyfin

    If needed, you can uninstall Jellyfin:

    sudo apt autoremove install jellyfin --purgesudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/jellyfin.list

    Enhancing Your Media Experience

    For more insights on optimizing your media server, check out our article on Jellyfin vs Plex: A Comprehensive Comparison of Media Servers.

    Setting up Jellyfin on Ubuntu 22.04 is straightforward and enhances your media streaming capabilities. Follow this guide for a seamless installation and enjoy a robust, self-hosted media server!

  • NVIDIA on Ubuntu 22.04: The Definitive Installation Guide

    NVIDIA on Ubuntu 22.04: The Definitive Installation Guide

    Are you ready to unleash the full power of your NVIDIA graphics card on Ubuntu 22.04? This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods to install NVIDIA drivers, ensuring optimal performance and stability for your system.

    Installation from Ubuntu Repository: A Simple Approach

    The Ubuntu repository offers a straightforward way to install NVIDIA drivers. Here’s a detailed walk-through:

    Identifying Your Graphics Card

    Before installing, it’s crucial to know which NVIDIA card you have. This information will help in selecting the appropriate driver. To identify your card:

    • Open the Terminal.
    • Run the command: ubuntu-drivers devices.
    • Note the model and recommended driver from the output.
    a close up of a graphics card on a table
    Photo by Christian Wiediger / Unsplash

    Installing the Driver

    Ubuntu simplifies the driver installation process. You have two options:

    1. Automatic Installation:
      • Run sudo ubuntu-drivers autoinstall.
      • This command automatically installs the driver recommended for your graphics card.
    2. Manual Installation:
      • Install a specific driver with: sudo apt install nvidia-driver-XXX (replace XXX with the driver version number).
      • This method is useful if you need a specific driver version.

    Finalizing Installation

    After installing the driver, a system reboot is necessary to apply changes. Simply run sudo reboot.

    This method is ideal for most users, providing a balance between ease of use and performance​​.

    Advanced Installation: Beta Drivers via PPA Repository

    For those seeking the latest features and updates, the PPA repository offers access to beta drivers. However, note that these drivers might be less stable.

    Adding the PPA Repository

    • Execute sudo add-apt-repository ppa:graphics-drivers/ppa.
    • This command adds the repository to your system, enabling access to the latest drivers.

    Driver Installation

    Follow the same steps as in the standard method, but with access to a wider range of driver versions.

    System Reboot

    As with the previous method, reboot your system to activate the new driver​​.

    Manual Installation: Direct from Nvidia

    For advanced users, manual installation offers the most control.

    Downloading the Official Driver

    • Visit the official Nvidia website.
    • Select and download the appropriate driver for your graphics card.

    Installing Prerequisites

    • Run sudo apt install build-essential libglvnd-dev pkg-config.
    • These packages are necessary for the installation process.

    Disabling Nouveau and Installing the Driver

    • Disable the default Nouveau driver.
    • Switch to runlevel 3 using sudo telinit 3 to stop the current display server.
    • Install the downloaded driver using the command provided on Nvidia’s website.

    Reboot and Configuration

    • After installation, reboot your system.
    • Configure the NVIDIA X Server Settings for optimal performance​​.

    Full potential

    This guide covers everything from simple to advanced methods for installing NVIDIA drivers on Ubuntu 22.04. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, these instructions will help you maximize your NVIDIA graphics card’s capabilities on Linux.

    Remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Always back up important data before making significant changes to your system.

  • Unzipping to Specific Directories: A Linux User’s Guide

    Hello, fellow Linux enthusiasts! Today, we’re unraveling the mystery of unzipping files to specific directories. Whether you’re a seasoned Linux user or just starting, this guide is your key to mastering the art of file extraction in Linux.

    Why Specify a Directory for Unzipping?

    Unzipping files to a specific directory helps you stay organized and can be crucial for maintaining file structure in many scenarios, such as when installing software, organizing downloads, or managing large datasets.

    The Magic of the unzip Command

    At the heart of our tutorial is the unzip command – a simple yet powerful tool in Linux. Let’s break down how to use it effectively.

    The Basic Unzip Command

    To unzip a file, the basic syntax is:

    unzip file.zip

    This command will extract the contents of file.zip into the current working directory.

    Unzipping to a Specific Directory

    To unzip files into a specific directory, use the -d option followed by the desired directory path. Here’s how it’s done:

    unzip file.zip -d /path/to/directory

    Creating the Directory on the Fly

    What if the directory doesn’t exist? No problem! Combine mkdir and unzip like this:

    mkdir -p /path/to/directory && unzip file.zip -d /path/to/directory

    This command creates the directory (if it doesn’t exist) and then extracts the files into it.

    Advanced Options for Power Users

    • List Contents Without Extracting: unzip -l file.zip
    • Extract Specific Files: unzip file.zip file1.txt file2.txt
    • Overwrite Existing Files Without Prompting: unzip -o file.zip
    • Never Overwrite Existing Files: unzip -n file.zip

    Conclusion

    Unzipping files to a specific directory in Linux is a fundamental skill that enhances your file management efficiency. Armed with the unzip command and its options, you’re now ready to tackle any zipped file with confidence and precision. Happy unzipping!

  • Mastering GParted on Ubuntu: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

    Welcome to the world of Ubuntu, where tweaking and tuning your system is both a necessity and a geeky pleasure! Today, we’re diving into the realm of disk management with GParted, a powerhouse tool for partitioning and handling your hard drives. Whether you’re a Linux newbie or a seasoned penguin, this guide will walk you through installing and using GParted on Ubuntu like a pro.

    Getting Started with GParted

    Before we get our hands dirty, let’s understand what GParted is. GParted, or GNOME Partition Editor, is a free, open-source partition editor that lets you resize, copy, and move partitions without data loss. It’s like having a magic wand for your hard drive, only better because it’s real!

    Why Use GParted?

    • Flexibility: Resize, move, or copy partitions without losing your precious data.
    • Compatibility: Works with a variety of filesystems, including ext4, NTFS, and FAT32.
    • User-Friendly: A graphical interface that makes disk management less intimidating.

    Installing GParted on Ubuntu

    Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and install GParted. It’s as easy as pie – or, in our case, as easy as executing a couple of commands in the terminal.

    1. Open the Terminal: You can do this by searching for ‘Terminal’ in your Ubuntu dashboard or by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
    2. Update Package List: Enter the following command to ensure you have the latest package list:

    sudo apt update

    1. Install GParted: Now, for the main event, run:

    sudo apt install gparted

    Voilà! You’ve successfully installed GParted on your Ubuntu system.

    Launching and Using GParted

    With GParted installed, let’s explore how to launch and use this nifty tool.

    1. Launch GParted: Find GParted in your application menu or type sudo gparted in the terminal.
    2. Authenticate: Since disk management requires administrative privileges, enter your password when prompted.
    3. Explore the Interface: GParted’s interface might seem old dated at first, but it’s intuitive. You’ll see your hard drives and their partitions displayed graphically.
    4. Managing Partitions: Right-click on a partition to resize, move, or format it. Remember, always back up your data before making any changes!
    5. Apply Changes: After making your desired changes, click the ‘Apply’ button to execute the tasks.

    Handy Tips and Tricks

    • Backup First: Always back up important data before modifying partitions.
    • Unmount Partitions: Unmount any mounted partitions that you plan to modify.
    • Check for Errors: Use GParted to check for and fix filesystem errors.

    That’s it!

    Congratulations! You’re now equipped to manage your disk partitions with GParted on Ubuntu. Keep in mind, that with great power comes great responsibility, so always be cautious when dealing with disk partitions. Happy partitioning, and may your Ubuntu journey be ever smooth!

  • A Stroll Down Memory Lane: The History and Legacy of Mandrake Linux

    Have you ever wondered about the world of Linux distributions? When you think about Linux, Ubuntu or Fedora might be the first distros that come to mind. But do you know about the hidden gem that is Mandrake Linux? In today’s post, we dive into the fascinating history of this unique Linux distro and discuss its significance, why it reached its end, and its successors. Let’s begin our journey.

    1. A Brief Introduction to Linux Mandrake

    In 1998, the world was introduced to a new Linux distribution – Mandrake Linux. Born from the vision of Gael Duval, its primary goal was to provide an easy-to-use Linux experience with an aesthetic graphical environment. Notably, Mandrake was one of the first distros to focus on usability features such as an installer with a graphical user interface and a comprehensive set of pre-installed software.

    2. The Dawn of Mandrake Linux

    Mandrake Linux first gained attention by combining the stable technology of Red Hat Linux with KDE, an intuitively appealing user interface. The philosophy behind it was to streamline Linux configuration and make the environment more attractive and accessible for newcomers.

    This unique combination fostered an encouraging community, leading to its rapid adoption. Mandrake quickly rose in popularity, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the stalwarts of the Linux world.

    3. The Golden Era of Mandrake

    Mandrake’s golden era was the early 2000s. With an easy-to-use design, brilliant hardware detection, a large collection of software, several editions tailored to specific user needs, and a vibrant community, it became a preferred choice for many Linux beginners.

    The distro also introduced innovations such as the DrakX installer and the Urpmi package management system, which further enhanced its user-friendly nature.

    4. The Decline of Mandrake Linux

    Despite the popularity and promising start, Mandrake started facing complications. Financial struggles led the company to file for bankruptcy in 2003. There were several causes behind Mandrake’s decline:

    • Business Model: The company relied heavily on boxed sales. But with the rise of broadband internet and easy access to downloadable distros, its business model began to falter.
    • Competition: The rise of other user-friendly distros such as Ubuntu and Fedora gradually chipped away at Mandrake’s user base.

    Despite these challenges, MandrakeLinux attempted to rejuvenate itself by merging with Conectiva in 2005, leading to the creation of the Mandriva Linux.

    5. Mandriva Linux and its short-lived success

    The combination of Mandrake Linux and Conectiva gave birth to Mandriva Linux. The new distro inherited the best traits from both parents, providing a polished and feature-rich experience for its users. Yet, despite some early success, Mandriva couldn’t keep up with the changing Linux landscape and eventually ceased to exist in 2015.

    6. The successors: Mageia, OpenMandriva, ROSA

    Despite the end of Mandrake and Mandriva, their legacy lives on through several forks:

    • Mageia: Formed by a group of former Mandriva developers and community members, it aims to build upon Mandriva’s foundation while fostering a positive collaboration between developers and users.
    • OpenMandriva: Born out of the ashes of Mandriva, it sticks to its roots and carries on Mandrake’s original vision of a user-friendly, fully open source Linux distro.
    • ROSA: This Russian distro maintains the tradition of providing a polished, out-of-the-box experience complete with unique enhancements and tools.

    Each of these successors proudly carry the flame of Mandrake, showcasing its lasting influence in the Linux world.

    7. Conclusion

    Mandrake Linux’s journey is an interesting chapter in the history of Linux distros. From its peak popularity to its end, and then its legacy carried forward by its successors, Mandrake’s tale is a testament to the dynamic and resilient nature of open-source software.

    As we conclude, we remember Mandrake not just as a Linux distribution that couldn’t survive in the changing digital landscape. Instead, we view it as a pioneer that made Linux accessible to a wider audience and led the way for user-friendly Linux systems – a legacy that its successors proudly continue even today.

  • Minegrub: Minecraft-Inspired Grub Theme

    Step into a world where your Linux boot screen mirrors the blocky aesthetics of Minecraft. The Minegrub theme is not just a GRUB theme; it’s an homage to the Minecraft experience, and this guide will walk you through every step of its installation, and importantly, how to revert if you choose to do so.

    Sourcing the Minegrub Theme

    Before you can install Minegrub, you need to download it. The theme is freely available on GitHub, hosted by the developer’s repository. To start, visit the Minegrub theme’s release page and download the latest version.

    Download Minegrub Theme

    Select the Source code (zip) or Source code (tar.gz) link to download the theme package.

    Installing Minegrub

    With the theme downloaded, it’s time to weave the essence of Minecraft into your machine’s very startup.

    Delving into GRUB’s Configuration

    Navigate to the /etc/default/grub file to begin the installation process, backing up the original settings to safeguard against any missteps.

    # Backup your GRUB configuration for safety
    sudo cp     /etc/default/grub /etc/default/grub.bak

    # Edit the GRUB configuration to install Minegrub
    sudo nano /etc/default/grub

    Add or modify the GRUB_THEME line to point to the Minegrub theme’s theme.txt file:

    GRUB_THEME="/boot/grub/themes/minegrub-theme/theme.txt"

    Don’t forget to update GRUB to apply the new Minegrub theme settings:

    bashsudo update-grub

    Customizing with GRUB Customizer

    For those who prefer a more visual approach, GRUB Customizer can be a helpful ally, allowing you to install the Minegrub theme with a few clicks.

    # Launch GRUB Customizer
    grub-customizer

    Within the GUI, navigate to the Appearance settings to select the Minegrub theme.

    Uninstalling Minegrub

    If you decide to revert to your previous settings or want to try a new theme, uninstalling Minegrub is straightforward.

    # Remove the Minegrub theme directory
    sudo rm     -rf /boot/grub/themes/minegrub-theme

    # Revert to your original GRUB settings
    sudo cp     /etc/default/grub.bak /etc/default/grub

    # Update GRUB to apply the old settings
    sudo update-grub

    In case you used GRUB Customizer, you can also remove the theme through its interface by selecting another theme or the custom settings option.

    Troubleshooting the Minegrub Adventure

    Should the path to customization present challenges, keep these tips handy:

    • Always maintain a backup of your original GRUB configuration.
    • Test the Minegrub theme in a virtual machine before applying it to your main system.
    • If issues arise, consider using GRUB’s rescue mode to troubleshoot and address boot problems.

    Conclusion

    The Minegrub theme offers a playful start to your Linux sessions, invoking the charm of Minecraft every time you power on your machine. With this guide, you’re now equipped to install, customize, and even uninstall Minegrub, ensuring your system’s bootloader is as unique as your in-game creations.

  • Wine, Easy Way to Run exe File on Linux

    Transitioning from Windows to Linux is a liberating experience, but it often comes with an unexpected challenge — how do you run exe file on Linux? Thankfully, there’s a simple solution to this problem: Wine. It’s a powerful tool that lets you run Windows applications directly on your Linux machine, without the need for a virtual machine or dual-boot setup.

    What is Wine?

    Wine stands for Wine Is Not an Emulator. It’s a compatibility layer capable of running Windows applications on several POSIX-compliant operating systems, such as Linux, Mac OSX, and BSD. So, instead of simulating internal Windows logic like a virtual machine or emulator, Wine translates Windows API calls on-the-fly, eliminating the performance and memory penalties of other methods, and letting you cleanly integrate Windows applications into your desktop.

    How Does Wine Work?

    Some new Linux users might find it surprising to run .exe files on their systems. It seems counterintuitive, given that exe is the default extension for a file that runs an executable program on Windows. But this is where Wine shows off its magic!

    When you instruct Wine to run an exe file, it translates the Windows commands into something Linux can understand. Instead of treating the .exe file as a chunk of code written for a foreign operating system, Wine interprets the computer code, so your Linux system treats the .exe file as if it were a native Linux program.

    Steps to Install Wine:

    So, here is how you can install and run Wine on Linux:

    1. sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386
    2. wget -nc https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/winehq.key
    3. sudo apt-key add winehq.key
    4. sudo apt-add-repository 'deb https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/ubuntu/ focal main'
    5. sudo apt update
    6. sudo apt install --install-recommends winehq-stable

    Please note that the above commands are for Ubuntu 20.04. If you’re using a different distribution of Linux, please refer to the official Wine website for installation instructions.

    Running Windows Applications

    Now, to run your exe file, you simply need to do the following:

    1. Open Terminal.
    2. Navigate to the directory with your .exe file (use cd command).
    3. Use the command wine yourfile.exe to execute your .exe file.

    At this point, the Windows application should start, and you can use it like on a Windows system!

    Conclusion

    Wine is an excellent tool that expands Linux capabilities, allowing your system to run exe files typically restricted to Windows-based systems. Despite the occasional flaw or compatibility issue, Wine is a widely used solution to run exe file on Linux, making it an integral part of the Linux user’s toolkit. Wine allows Linux users to enjoy the flexibility and stability of a Linux system without wholly sacrificing Windows applications, making it a unique tool within the foray of operating system design.

  • Genshin Impact on Linux: A Comprehensive Guide

    Every gamer knows the adventure game Genshin Impact. This open-world role-playing game created a massive wave in the gaming industry since its launch, impressing both critics and players worldwide. But the biggest question gripping the Linux users’ minds is – “Genshin Linux, can they co-exist?”

    That’s what we’re unraveling in this blog post. This comprehensive guide dives deep into making the impossible, possible by running your favorite Genshin Impact on Linux. Let’s dive right in!

    Understanding Genshin Impact and Its Popularity

    Genshin Impact is undoubtedly the talk of the town. Its gripping storyline combined with breathtaking graphics and exciting gameplay has attracted millions of gamers worldwide.

    The game offers you a gigantic open-world environment to explore and a host of characters with unique abilities. The element-based combat system adds another layer of tactical complexity. In essence, it’s every gamer’s paradise packaged in a single game.

    But the game’s limitation to run only on Windows, iOS, Android, and PlayStation has left Linux users in the lurch.

    Is Genshin Linux a Reality?

    The lack of native support for Linux by Genshin Impact has left Linux users with no options but to use workarounds. Thanks to tools such as Wine and Lutris, bringing Genshin Linux to life is now a possibility.

    Let’s dive deeper.

    The Role of Wine in Genshin Linux

    Wine is a compatibility layer capable of running Windows applications on several POSIX-compliant operating systems, such as Linux. However, it’s not as straightforward as installing and starting the game.

    To use Wine, you need to:

    1. Install Wine.
    2. Configure Wine to ensure compatibility with Genshin Impact.

    Despite these efforts, some users may still encounter errors given Genshin Impact’s robust anti-cheat system.

    Lutris: Your Ally for Genshin Linux

    Lutris simplifies the process. This open-source gaming platform manages, installs and launches your games in one interface, providing longer gaming sessions.

    To use Lutris, install it and then look for Genshin Impact in its game library. Start the installation process, and Lutris should handle the rest.

    Please note that running Genshin Impact on Linux using Lutris still has some known issues, like occasional crashes. But don’t worry, improvements are continuously made to iron out these wrinkles.

    What’s the Verdict on Genshin Linux?

    In conclusion, despite the lack of native support, Linux users can still enjoy Genshin Impact. The road to Genshin Linux is complicated but not impassable. Wine and Lutris provide pathways to bridge the gap while waiting for any possible release of Genshin Impact for Linux.

    The reach of Genshin Impact is undeniably vast, and with a solid demand for Genshin Linux, who knows what the future holds? The gaming world is full of surprises. Linux users can only hope for an eventual Linux-native Genshin Impact, but until then, the tools at hand can deliver an enjoyable gaming experience.

    Happy gaming!

    We hope this article provided some valuable insights for Genshin Linux enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more gaming updates!

  • Rocky Linux vs AlmaLinux: A Comprehensive Comparison for Technophiles

    Ever since CentOS shifted their work towards CentOS Stream, tech enthusiasts found themselves at crossroads, leaving them to decide between Rocky Linux vs AlmaLinux. Both are fabulous operating systems aiming to fill the void left behind by CentOS. In this post, we’ll provide an in-depth comparison between Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux, so you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

    What is AlmaLinux?

    AlmaLinux is an open-source, community-driven project forked from the sources of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). Spearheaded by CloudLinux, a company with ample experience in building Linux distributions, AlmaLinux promises to deliver a reliable, stable, and efficient OS.

    What is Rocky Linux?

    Rocky Linux, on the other hand, is a community-driven enterprise operating system designed to be bug-for-bug compatible with RHEL. It was developed by Gregory Kurtzer, the founder of the original CentOS.

    A Detailed Comparison: Rocky Linux vs AlmaLinux

    1. Development and Maintenance

    AlmaLinux has the backing of CloudLinux, offering a guarantee for long-term support and stability. Being supported by a commercial entity can be a perk since they have dedicated resources to maintain the project.

    Rocky Linux, while leaning more on its community for development and support, is supervised by Gregory Kurtzer, bringing a wealth of experience and credibility to the project.

    2. Release Dates and Updates

    AlmaLinux had a head start with their first stable release coming in March 2021. Rocky Linux didn’t lag far behind, with their initial stable release in June 2021.

    Since their introductions, both AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux have promptly kept up with RHEL’s updates, demonstrating their commitment to bring users the latest features and security enhancements.

    3. Compatibility

    Both Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux claim to be “1:1 binary compatible” with RHEL, meaning software and configurations for RHEL or CentOS can smoothly work on either of these operating systems.

    4. Community Support

    Both projects put a lot of emphasis on their community. However, the Rocky Linux community might be more extensive because of the previous popularity of CentOS and Greg Kurtzer’s reputation.

    5. Performance

    Performance-wise, both Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux are virtually indistinguishable, owing to their shared source code.

    6. Future Roadmap

    Both projects promise to deliver 10 years of support till 2029, aligning with the lifecycle of RHEL 8.

    Conclusion

    Choosing between Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux largely depends on personal preference. Consider factors like development and maintenance, release dates and updates, compatibility, community support, performance, and future roadmap when inclined towards one or the other. Regardless of whether you choose Rocky Linux or AlmaLinux, the future of enterprise Linux is assured with two stellar projects ready to carry CentOS’s torch forward.