Linux Server: Ten Leading Distros

The list of leading Linux server distributions contains plenty of familiar names for those who follow the sector. But do you know all ten? Ken Hess makes the call:

You know that Linux is a hot data center server. You know that it saves you money in licensing and maintenance costs. But, what are your options for Linux as a server operating system? Listed here are the top ten Linux server distributions — some of which you may not be aware. The following chararistics, in no particular order, qualified a distribution for inclusion in this list: Ease-of-use, available commercial support and data center reliability.

Ubuntu – At the top of almost every Linux-related list, Debian-based Ubuntu is in a class by itself. It surpasses all other distributions from its simple installation to its excellent hardware discovery to its world-class commercial support; Ubuntu leaves the others fumbling in the dusty distance.

Red Hat – Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) started out as the “little Linux company that could” and is now a major force in the quest for data center rackspace. The Linux darling of large companies throughout the world, Red Hat’s innovations and non-stop support will have you coming back for more.

SUSE – Novell-owned SUSE Linux is stable, easy-to-maintain and offers Novell’s 24×7 rapid-response support for those who don’t have the time or patience for lengthy troubleshooting calls. And, Novell’s consulting teams will have you meeting your SLAs and making your accountants happy to boot.

Read the rest at ServerWatch.