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Ubuntu, Debian, AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux: which should you choose?

Updated 26 October 2026

All four systems are solid choices, and most software runs on any of them. The differences are about what you are used to and what you want to install. If you are unsure, choose Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.

Ubuntu

The most widely used system for servers, with the biggest set of guides and answers online. LTS means long-term support. ZaRHost offers Ubuntu 24.04 LTS and 22.04 LTS.

Debian

Small, stable and plain. A good fit when you want few surprises and are happy to add what you need yourself.

AlmaLinux and Rocky Linux

Both are community-built systems that are compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Choose one of them if your software or your team expects that family, or if you plan to use cPanel, which needs AlmaLinux or Rocky Linux.

A simple rule

  • New to servers: Ubuntu 24.04 LTS
  • Want it small and steady: Debian 12
  • Need Red Hat compatibility or cPanel: AlmaLinux 9 or Rocky Linux 9

Questions

Can I change system later?

Yes. You can reinstall a server with another system from its page. Take a snapshot or copy your files first, as a reinstall starts the disk fresh.

Do apps like Docker and Nginx work on all of them?

Yes. The one-click apps support all four systems, apart from a few control panels that need a particular one.

Keep reading

  • What is a VPS?A VPS is your own slice of a bigger server, with its own system, address and access. Here is how it differs from shared hosting and how to pick a size.
  • How to install Docker on UbuntuInstall Docker and Compose on an Ubuntu server in one click from the ZaRHost panel, or by hand with the official script. Includes a quick test.
  • Linux VPS hosting in the UK