Oracle Linux is an enterprise-class, open-source operating system based on the source code of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). Oracle Linux is designed for businesses and organizations that require a high level of performance, reliability, and security for their server and data center environments. Here are some key features and aspects of Oracle Linux:
- Compatibility with RHEL: Oracle Linux maintains compatibility with RHEL, which means applications and services certified for RHEL are also compatible with Oracle Linux. This compatibility extends to kernel APIs, user-level libraries, and system commands.
- Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel (UEK):
- Oracle Linux includes the Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel (UEK), an optimized and performance-focused kernel developed by Oracle. UEK provides features like kernel live patching and enhancements for modern hardware.
- Ksplice: Oracle Linux supports Ksplice, a technology that allows administrators to apply kernel updates and security patches without rebooting the system. This helps reduce downtime and improve system availability.
- Btrfs File System: Oracle Linux includes support for the Btrfs (B-tree file system), which offers advanced features like snapshots, data compression, and integrated RAID for efficient and scalable storage management.
- Yum Package Manager: Oracle Linux uses the Yum package manager for software installation, updates, and dependency management. It also provides the DNF package manager as an alternative.
- Oracle Linux Premier Support: Oracle offers Premier Support for Oracle Linux, which includes 24/7 technical support, software updates, and security patches. This support is especially valuable for enterprise environments with mission-critical workloads.
- Oracle Unbreakable Linux Network (ULN): ULN is Oracle’s online support portal, providing access to software updates, patches, and errata. Oracle Linux customers can use ULN to manage their systems and access support resources.
- Virtualization Support: Oracle Linux includes support for various virtualization technologies, including Oracle VM VirtualBox and Oracle VM Server for SPARC and x86. This makes it suitable for virtualized server environments.
- Security Features: Oracle Linux incorporates security features such as Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux), firewall management with firewalld, and auditing tools for enhanced system security.
- DTrace: Oracle Linux includes DTrace, a dynamic tracing framework that allows administrators to monitor and troubleshoot system performance and behavior in real-time.
- Oracle Autonomous Linux: Oracle Autonomous Linux is a version of Oracle Linux that incorporates automated patch management and security updates, reducing the need for manual intervention.
- Hardware Support: Oracle Linux is designed to run on a wide range of hardware platforms, from x86 and x86-64 to SPARC-based systems.
Oracle Linux is a suitable choice for organizations that require a reliable, enterprise-grade operating system for their infrastructure. It is commonly used in conjunction with Oracle Database and other Oracle products, but it can also be used independently for various server and virtualization workloads. Oracle provides extensive documentation, support, and resources for Oracle Linux users.