Rocky Linux arrives on Google Cloud

Getty Images

For years, CentOS Linux was Linux-savvy system administrators' top choice. They could use it and get the best of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) without paying for support -- unless they really needed the help. Then, when Red Hat shifted focus from CentOS Linux, other groups seized the opportunity to build RHEL clones, such as AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux, for cost-conscious server and cloud users. 

The best cloud storage services

Free and cheap personal and small business cloud storage services are everywhere. But, which one is best for you? Let's look at the top cloud storage options.

Read now

As always, Rocky Linux is a community-maintained and freely-available enterprise Linux distribution. It is managed by the Rocky Enterprise Software Foundation (RESF), a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC). The Foundation and distribution are led by Gregory M. Kurtzer, one of CentOS's original founders. Since its launch, it's consistently been downloaded over a quarter of a million times a month. In short, Rocky is very popular both with individuals and large organizations.

Historically, Google has been a major Rocky Linux supporter. Google Cloud was the first cloud provider to offer Rocky Linux images shortly after it was released in December 2020. Google Cloud was also one of the first hyperscalers to put its money behind RESF. 

​What is digital transformation? Everything you need to know The best cloud providers compared: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and more The top 6 cheap web hosting services: Find an affordable option What is cloud computing? Here's everything you need to know ​What is digital transformation? Everything you need to know

The best cloud providers compared: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and more

The top 6 cheap web hosting services: Find an affordable option

What is cloud computing? Here's everything you need to know

Editorial standards Show Comments