❓ FAQ: Upgrading from CentOS 6 to CentOS Stream 10 (or Alternatives)
Can I upgrade directly from CentOS 6 to CentOS Stream 10?
No, a direct upgrade from CentOS 6 to CentOS Stream 10 is not supported. You will need to perform a fresh installation and migrate your applications and data manually.
⚠️ Important Note: CentOS 6 reached end-of-life in November 2020. It no longer receives security updates or support, making it risky for production use.
Are there alternatives to CentOS Stream 10?
Yes! We offer AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux as supported alternatives for your upgrade path. These distributions are:
- 100% RHEL-compatible
- Actively maintained and supported
- Stable for enterprise workloads
If you’re looking for a drop-in replacement with long-term support, these are excellent choices.
What are the main differences between CentOS 6 and the newer platforms?
| Feature | CentOS 6 | CentOS Stream 10 / AlmaLinux / Rocky Linux |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2011 | 2024 (latest versions) |
| Support Status | Ended in 2020 | Supported until 2030+ |
| Init System | Upstart | systemd |
| Package Manager | yum | dnf |
| Kernel | Older (2.x/3.x) | Linux 6.x |
| Software Stack | Legacy versions | Modern languages & frameworks |
| Security Updates | None | Ongoing support |
What should I do if I’m still using CentOS 6?
We recommend the following steps:
- Choose your new OS: CentOS Stream 10, AlmaLinux, or Rocky Linux
- Set up a fresh installation on a new server or VM
- Migrate your applications, data, and configurations
- Thoroughly test your setup before going live
⚠️ Important Note: Your applications may need adjustments or upgrades to be compatible with newer system libraries and configurations.