Raspberry Pi enthusiasts interested in running the free and open-source CentOS may be interested in a comprehensive tutorial available over on the PiMyLifeUp website. This tutorial provides full instructions on how you can install the free and open-source version of its upstream source, Red Hat Enterprise Linux. CentOS is known for its robustness and stability, making it a popular choice for server environments and development projects.
Why Choose CentOS for Raspberry Pi?
CentOS offers several advantages for Raspberry Pi users. One of the key benefits is its long-term support. This means you can continually run the same operating system for an extended period without having to do a full upgrade. This allows you to maintain longer uptimes without worrying about packages becoming no longer supported as security and bug fixes are commonly backported. This is particularly useful for projects that require a stable and secure environment over a long period.
“The long term support means you can continually run the same operating system for an extended period without having to do a full upgrade. This allows you to maintain longer uptimes without worrying about packages becoming no longer supported as security and bug fixes are commonly backported.”
Installation Challenges and Tips
However, there are some limitations to be aware of. Sadly for the Raspberry Pi 4, you will have a limited choice on what version of CentOS that you can use. On the mirror page, you need to find the minimal version of CentOS that contains the number 4 in its filename. This can be a bit restrictive, but it ensures compatibility with the hardware.
“Sadly for the Raspberry Pi 4, you will have a limited choice on what version of CentOS that you can use. On the mirror page, you need to find the minimal version of CentOS that contains the number 4 in its filename.”
In January 2014, CentOS announced the official joining with Red Hat while staying independent from RHEL, under a new CentOS governing board. This partnership has allowed CentOS to benefit from the resources and expertise of Red Hat while maintaining its independence. This has further strengthened CentOS’s position as a reliable and stable operating system.
Practical Applications and Use Cases
CentOS on Raspberry Pi can be used for a variety of applications. For instance, it can serve as a lightweight server for web hosting, file sharing, or even as a development environment for coding and testing applications. The stability and long-term support make it an excellent choice for these purposes. Additionally, CentOS’s compatibility with various software packages means you can easily install and run a wide range of applications.
For educational purposes, CentOS can be a valuable tool for students and hobbyists looking to learn more about Linux and server management. The Raspberry Pi’s affordability combined with CentOS’s robustness provides an excellent platform for experimentation and learning.
In conclusion, running CentOS on a Raspberry Pi offers a stable and secure environment with long-term support, making it ideal for both personal and professional projects. While there are some limitations, particularly with the Raspberry Pi 4, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Whether you’re looking to set up a server, develop applications, or simply learn more about Linux, CentOS on Raspberry Pi is a great choice.
Source: Adafruit | PiMyLifeUp
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