Rocky Linux 9.6 | A Deep Dive into the Latest Release

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A Deep Dive into the Latest Release

Rocky Linux 9.6: A Deep Dive into the Latest Release

Rocky Linux has quickly established itself as a leading enterprise-grade Linux distribution, filling the void left by the CentOS demise. Built on the foundation of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), Rocky Linux offers a stable, secure, and predictable platform suitable for a wide range of workloads. The latest iteration, Rocky Linux 9.6, continues this tradition, bringing with it a host of improvements, new features, and updated packages. This article delves deep into the key aspects of Rocky Linux 9.6, exploring what makes it a compelling choice for businesses and individual users alike.

What is Rocky Linux?

Before diving into the specifics of 9.6, it’s worth reiterating what Rocky Linux is all about. Following Red Hat’s decision to shift focus from CentOS Linux to CentOS Stream, Gregory Kurtzer, the founder of the original CentOS project, spearheaded the creation of Rocky Linux. The primary goal was to create a true downstream build of RHEL, ensuring binary compatibility and long-term stability. Rocky Linux is community-driven and backed by the Rocky Enterprise Software Foundation (RESF), guaranteeing its independence and longevity.

Key Highlights of Rocky Linux 9.6

Rocky Linux 9.6 arrives with numerous enhancements inherited from its upstream source, RHEL 9.6. These include improvements to security, performance, and overall system management. Some of the most notable changes are:

• Updated Kernel: Based on the Linux kernel 5.14, Rocky Linux 9.6 benefits from enhanced hardware support, performance optimizations, and security patches. This updated kernel brings support for newer processors, storage devices, and networking technologies.
• Enhanced Security: Security is paramount in any enterprise environment, and Rocky Linux 9.6 continues to prioritize it. Key security features include:
  • Updated crypto libraries: Addressing the latest vulnerabilities and supporting modern cryptographic algorithms.
  • Improved SELinux policies: Providing granular control over system resources and processes.
  • Compliance with security standards: Facilitating compliance with industry regulations such as PCI DSS and HIPAA.
• Performance Improvements: Rocky Linux 9.6 incorporates various performance enhancements that translate to faster application execution and improved system responsiveness. These improvements affect various aspects of the system, including memory management, process scheduling, and I/O operations.
• Updated Toolchain: The development toolchain, including compilers, debuggers, and build tools, has been updated to the latest versions. This ensures that developers have access to the most advanced tools for building and optimizing their applications. This includes updated versions of GCC, Glibc, and other essential development libraries.
• Cloud and Containerization Support: Rocky Linux 9.6 offers excellent support for cloud environments and containerization technologies. It includes updated versions of container runtimes like Docker and Podman, along with tools for managing containerized applications. This makes it an ideal platform for deploying and managing applications in modern cloud-native environments.

Detailed Look at Key Components

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key components and features of Rocky Linux 9.6:

• Kernel: The 5.14 kernel is a significant upgrade. Among the many benefits, it offers:
  • Improved support for AMD and Intel CPUs.
  • Enhanced support for NVMe storage devices.
  • Better networking performance.
  • New security features to protect against emerging threats.
• Desktop Environment: Rocky Linux 9.6 primarily uses the GNOME 40 desktop environment. GNOME 40 introduces a redesigned user interface with a focus on workflow efficiency and ease of use. It includes improved search functionality, customizable dashboards, and enhanced application management. KDE Plasma is also available as an alternative desktop environment.
• Package Management: YUM continues to be the primary package management tool, based on the DNF technology. This provides a robust and reliable way to install, update, and remove software packages.
• System Administration: Cockpit, the web-based system administration interface, is included in Rocky Linux 9.6. Cockpit allows administrators to monitor system performance, manage storage, configure networking, and perform other administrative tasks through a user-friendly web interface.

Specific Improvements and Updates

To better illustrate the advancements in Rocky Linux 9.6, consider the following table highlighting key package updates:

Package	Version in 9.5	Version in 9.6	Key Improvements
Kernel	5.14.0-362	5.14.0-427	Enhanced hardware support, performance improvements, and security patches.
GCC	11.3.1	11.4.1	Improved code generation, support for new language features, and bug fixes.
OpenSSL	3.0.7	3.0.12	Security vulnerability fixes, performance optimizations, and support for new cryptographic algorithms.
Python	3.9	3.9	While the major version remains the same, expect minor updates and bug fixes within the 3.9 series.
Docker	20.10	24.0	Significant updates to the container runtime, including enhanced security features, improved performance, and support for the latest container standards.
Podman	4.4	4.6	Similar improvements to Docker, providing a robust alternative container runtime.

Who Should Use Rocky Linux 9.6?

Rocky Linux 9.6 is an excellent choice for a variety of users:

• Enterprises: Businesses seeking a stable, secure, and reliable operating system for their servers and workstations will find Rocky Linux 9.6 an ideal solution. Its binary compatibility with RHEL ensures that applications certified for RHEL will run seamlessly on Rocky Linux.
• Developers: Developers who require a consistent and predictable environment for building and testing their applications will appreciate the stability and long-term support offered by Rocky Linux. The updated toolchain and containerization support make it an excellent platform for modern software development.
• Researchers and Scientists: Rocky Linux is well-suited for scientific computing and research environments. Its stability and support for a wide range of scientific software make it a reliable platform for data analysis, modeling, and simulation.
• Individuals: If you are familiar with Linux and desire a rock-solid operating system for personal use, Rocky Linux is a great choice. It’s particularly appealing if you value stability over the bleeding edge.

How to Upgrade to Rocky Linux 9.6

Upgrading to Rocky Linux 9.6 from a previous version is a straightforward process. Before starting, it’s highly recommended to back up your system to prevent data loss in case of unexpected issues. The upgrade process can be performed using the following steps:

1. Update Existing Packages: Ensure your current system is fully up-to-date:
2. sudo dnf update -y
3. Verify System is Running Rocky Linux 9.x: Ensure you’re on a 9.x release before proceeding.
4. cat /etc/rocky-release
5. Reboot the System: It’s beneficial to reboot after a major update of packages.
6. sudo reboot
7. Upgrade to Rocky Linux 9.6: Initiate the upgrade process:
8. sudo dnf upgrade –releasever=9.6 –allowerasing

The –allowerasing option may be required to resolve dependency issues during the upgrade.

9. Review and Accept Changes: During the upgrade process, DNF will present a list of packages to be installed, updated, or removed. Carefully review the changes and confirm that you want to proceed.
10. Reboot After Upgrade: Once the upgrade is complete, reboot the system to load the new kernel and system libraries:
11. sudo reboot
12. Verify the Upgrade: After the reboot, verify that the system is running Rocky Linux 9.6:
13. cat /etc/rocky-release

Rocky Linux 9.6 represents a significant step forward for this community-driven distribution. By building on the solid foundation of RHEL 9.6, it delivers a secure, stable, and performant platform suitable for a wide range of workloads. With its enhanced security features, updated kernel, and improved toolchain, Rocky Linux 9.6 is well-positioned to meet the needs of enterprises, developers, researchers, and individuals alike. If you are looking for a reliable and long-term supported Linux distribution, Rocky Linux 9.6 is definitely worth considering. Its commitment to community involvement and its focus on stability make it a compelling alternative to other enterprise Linux distributions.

99 Ways You Can Master Rocky Linux

Rocky Linux, a community-driven enterprise operating system, has quickly become a favorite among users seeking a stable, reliable, and open-source alternative to CentOS. Built from the sources of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), Rocky Linux inherits its robustness and security features, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from server deployments to desktop environments. This comprehensive guide presents 99 ways to master Rocky Linux, covering installation, configuration, security, networking, performance optimization, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Linux user, this article will equip you with the knowledge and skills to harness the full potential of Rocky Linux.

I. Installation and Initial Setup (1-10)

1. Download the Correct ISO: Choose the appropriate ISO image for your architecture (x86_64, ARM, etc.) and desired environment (minimal, DVD).
2. Verify the ISO Integrity: Use checksums (SHA256, SHA512) to ensure the downloaded ISO is not corrupted.
3. Create Bootable Media: Use tools like dd, Rufus, or Etcher to create a bootable USB drive or DVD.
4. Boot from the Installation Media: Configure your BIOS/UEFI to boot from the USB/DVD drive.
5. Choose the Installation Source: Select the installation media as the source.
6. Configure Network Settings: Set up a static IP address or use DHCP.
7. Set the Hostname: Choose a descriptive hostname for your system.
8. Select the Installation Destination: Configure disk partitioning (automatic or custom).
9. Create User Accounts: Set up a root password and create a regular user account.
10. Complete the Installation: Reboot the system after the installation is finished.

II. Basic System Administration (11-20)

11. Update the System: Use dnf update to install the latest security patches and software updates.
12. Install Essential Packages: Install commonly used tools like vim, wget, curl, and git.
13. Explore the File System: Navigate the directory structure using cd, ls, pwd, and tree.
14. Manage Users and Groups: Use useradd, userdel, groupadd, and groupdel to manage user accounts and groups.
15. Change File Permissions: Use chmod to modify file permissions and ownership.
16. Manage Processes: Use ps, top, and kill to monitor and manage running processes.
17. Configure System Time: Use timedatectl to set the system time and timezone.
18. Analyze System Logs: Examine system logs in /var/log using tail and grep to diagnose issues.
19. Configure SSH: Enable and configure SSH for remote access.
20. Set Up Firewalld: Configure the firewall to allow necessary traffic and block unwanted connections (see sections VI and VII for more details).

III. Package Management with DNF (21-30)

21. Search for Packages: Use dnf search to find packages based on keywords.
22. Install Packages: Use dnf install to install specific packages.
23. Remove Packages: Use dnf remove to uninstall packages.
24. List Installed Packages: Use dnf list installed to see a list of installed packages.
25. Get Package Information: Use dnf info to view detailed information about a package.
26. Manage Repositories: Add, enable, and disable repositories using dnf config-manager.
27. Clean the DNF Cache: Use dnf clean all to remove cached package data.
28. Update Package Metadata: Use dnf makecache to update the package metadata cache.
29. Check for Updates: Use dnf check-update to see available updates.
30. Downgrade Packages: Use dnf downgrade to revert to a previous version of a package (use with caution).

IV. Storage Management (31-40)

31. List Disks and Partitions: Use lsblk and fdisk -l to view disk and partition information.
32. Create Partitions: Use fdisk, parted, or gdisk to create partitions.
33. Create File Systems: Use mkfs to create file systems (e.g., ext4, XFS) on partitions.
34. Mount File Systems: Use mount to mount file systems to specific directories.
35. Unmount File Systems: Use umount to unmount file systems.
36. Configure fstab: Edit /etc/fstab to automatically mount file systems at boot.
37. Manage Logical Volumes (LVM): Use LVM to create flexible and resizable storage volumes.
38. Implement RAID: Set up RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) for data redundancy and performance.
39. Use Disk Quotas: Implement disk quotas to limit disk space usage for users and groups.
40. Monitor Disk Space Usage: Use df and du to monitor disk space usage.

V. Networking (41-50)

41. Configure Network Interfaces: Edit network configuration files in /etc/sysconfig/network-scripts/.
42. Use NetworkManager: Use nmcli or the GUI to manage network connections.
43. Configure DNS: Set DNS servers in /etc/resolv.conf or via NetworkManager.
44. Configure DHCP: Set up a DHCP server to automatically assign IP addresses.
45. Configure Static IP Addresses: Assign static IP addresses to network interfaces.
46. Manage Routing: Configure routing tables using ip route.
47. Test Network Connectivity: Use ping, traceroute, and netstat to test network connectivity.
48. Configure VPN: Set up a VPN connection for secure remote access.
49. Implement Network Bonding: Combine multiple network interfaces for increased bandwidth and redundancy.
50. Use Wireshark: Capture and analyze network traffic using Wireshark for troubleshooting.

VI. Security (51-60)

51. Enable and Configure Firewalld: Start and enable the firewalld service.
52. Allow Specific Services: Allow specific services through the firewall using firewall-cmd –add-service=ssh.
53. Open Specific Ports: Open specific ports for applications using firewall-cmd –add-port=80/tcp.
54. Create Custom Firewall Zones: Define custom firewall zones for different network environments.
55. Secure SSH: Disable password authentication, use key-based authentication, and change the default SSH port.
56. Implement SELinux: Enable and configure SELinux for mandatory access control.
57. Regular Security Audits: Perform regular security audits using tools like lynis.
58. Install and Configure Fail2ban: Protect against brute-force attacks with Fail2ban.
59. Keep System Updated: Regularly update the system with security patches using dnf update.
60. Use Two-Factor Authentication: Implement two-factor authentication for critical accounts.

VII. Firewalld Deep Dive (61-70)

61. List Active Zones: Use firewall-cmd –get-active-zones to see active firewall zones.
62. Get Default Zone: Use firewall-cmd –get-default-zone to find the default zone.
63. Change Default Zone: Use firewall-cmd –set-default-zone=<zone> to change the default zone.
64. List Zone Services: Use firewall-cmd –list-services –zone=<zone> to see services allowed in a zone.
65. List Zone Ports: Use firewall-cmd –list-ports –zone=<zone> to see open ports in a zone
66. List Zone Interfaces: Use firewall-cmd –list-interfaces –zone=<zone> to see assigned interfaces.
67. Add a Service Permanently: firewall-cmd –permanent –add-service=<service>.
68. Remove a Service Permanently: firewall-cmd –permanent –remove-service=<service>.
69. Reload Firewall Configuration: firewall-cmd –reload.
70. Direct Interface to a Zone: firewall-cmd –zone=<zone> –change-interface=<interface> –permanent.

VIII. Performance Tuning (71-80)

71. Monitor System Resources: Use tools like top, htop, and vmstat to monitor CPU, memory, and disk usage.
72. Optimize Kernel Parameters: Adjust kernel parameters in /etc/sysctl.conf to improve performance.
73. Use SSDs: Use Solid State Drives (SSDs) for faster storage and improved performance.
74. Tune File Systems: Optimize file system settings using tune2fs for ext4 or xfs_admin for XFS.
75. Use Caching: Implement caching mechanisms like Varnish or Memcached to improve web application performance.
76. Optimize Database Performance: Tune database settings for MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MariaDB.
77. Use a Lightweight Desktop Environment: Choose a lightweight desktop environment like XFCE or LXQt to reduce resource consumption.
78. Disable Unnecessary Services: Disable services that are not needed to free up system resources.
79. Configure Swappiness: Adjust the swappiness value to control how often the system uses swap space.
80. Use Performance Profiling Tools: Use tools like perf and oprofile to identify performance bottlenecks.

IX. Automation and Scripting (81-90)

81. Write Bash Scripts: Automate tasks using Bash scripting.
82. Use Cron Jobs: Schedule tasks to run automatically using cron.
83. Implement Ansible: Use Ansible for configuration management and automation.
84. Use Systemd Timers: Use Systemd timers as an alternative to cron jobs.
85. Automate Backups: Automate system backups using tools like rsync or Bacula.
86. Script Package Installations: Create scripts to automate the installation of multiple packages.
87. Automate User Account Creation: Create scripts to streamline user account creation.
88. Use Git for Version Control: Manage scripts and configuration files using Git.
89. Implement Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Use tools like Terraform to manage infrastructure as code.
90. Create Custom Systemd Services: Write custom Systemd service files to manage applications.

X. Advanced Topics (91-99)

91. Containerization with Docker: Learn to use Docker for containerizing applications.
92. Orchestration with Kubernetes: Explore Kubernetes for orchestrating containerized applications.
93. Virtualization with KVM/QEMU: Set up and manage virtual machines using KVM/QEMU.
94. Cloud Computing with AWS/Azure/GCP: Deploy Rocky Linux instances on cloud platforms.
95. Contribute to the Rocky Linux Community: Participate in the Rocky Linux community by contributing code, documentation, or support.
96. Explore Alternative Desktop Environments: Experiment with different desktop environments like GNOME, KDE Plasma, and Cinnamon.
97. Set up a Web Server (Apache/Nginx): Configure a web server to host websites and applications.
98. Troubleshoot Boot Issues: Learn how to troubleshoot boot issues using rescue mode and GRUB.
99. Stay Updated on Rocky Linux Developments: Follow the Rocky Linux project for updates, security advisories, and new features.

This comprehensive guide provides a roadmap to mastering Rocky Linux. By working through these 99 ways, you will gain a solid understanding of the operating system and be well-equipped to tackle a wide range of tasks, from basic system administration to advanced topics like containerization and cloud computing. Remember to consult the official Rocky Linux documentation and community resources for further information and support. Embrace the power of open-source and unlock the full potential of Rocky Linux!

Certainly! Here are 30 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Rocky Linux, each with detailed answers in paragraph form:

1. What is Rocky Linux?

Rocky Linux is a free and open-source enterprise-level Linux distribution designed to be 100% bug-for-bug compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). It was created as a community-driven project after Red Hat announced changes to CentOS, focusing on providing a stable and reliable operating system for servers and workstations.

2. Who founded Rocky Linux?

Rocky Linux was founded by Gregory Kurtzer, one of the original founders of the CentOS project. He initiated Rocky Linux in response to the shift in CentOS’s direction from a downstream RHEL clone to CentOS Stream.

3. Why was Rocky Linux created?

Rocky Linux was created to fill the gap left by the discontinuation of CentOS Linux as a stable downstream RHEL clone. Many users and organizations needed a free, enterprise-grade OS compatible with RHEL for production environments, which Rocky Linux aims to provide.

4. How is Rocky Linux different from CentOS?

While CentOS Linux was a downstream rebuild of RHEL, Rocky Linux continues that model after CentOS shifted to CentOS Stream, which tracks just ahead of RHEL. Rocky Linux remains a true downstream, stable, and production-ready alternative closely mirroring RHEL.

5. Is Rocky Linux free to use?

Yes, Rocky Linux is completely free to download, use, and distribute. It is developed and maintained by a community of volunteers and organizations who believe in open-source software.

6. What are the system requirements for Rocky Linux?

Rocky Linux requires a 64-bit x86_64 compatible processor, with at least 2 GB of RAM recommended for minimal installations. Disk space requirements vary based on the installation type but generally start around 20 GB for a server installation.

7. Which architectures does Rocky Linux support?

Currently, Rocky Linux primarily supports the x86_64 architecture. There are plans and community efforts to support other architectures like ARM in the future.

8. How do I download Rocky Linux?

You can download Rocky Linux ISO images from the official website at rockylinux.org. They offer different ISO types such as minimal, DVD, and boot ISO images suitable for various installation needs.

9. How do I install Rocky Linux?

Installation is straightforward using the Anaconda installer, similar to RHEL and CentOS. After booting from the installation media, you follow prompts to configure language, disk partitions, network, and select packages, then proceed with the installation.

10. Can I migrate from CentOS to Rocky Linux?

Yes, there are tools and scripts available to help migrate from CentOS 8 to Rocky Linux 8. These tools automate much of the process, allowing you to convert your existing CentOS system into Rocky Linux with minimal downtime.

11. What package manager does Rocky Linux use?

Rocky Linux uses the dnf package manager, which is the modern successor to yum. It manages software installation, updates, and removal from the RPM package repositories.

12. Does Rocky Linux have official repositories?

Yes, Rocky Linux has official repositories that mirror RHEL’s packages, ensuring compatibility and stability. There are base, updates, extras, and other repositories maintained by the Rocky Linux community.

13. Can I use EPEL on Rocky Linux?

Absolutely. The Extra Packages for Enterprise Linux (EPEL) repository is compatible with Rocky Linux, providing additional software packages not included in the official repos.

14. How often are Rocky Linux updates released?

Rocky Linux follows RHEL’s update cadence, providing security patches, bug fixes, and minor enhancements regularly. Major releases typically align with RHEL major versions.

15. What is the Rocky Linux lifecycle?

Each Rocky Linux major release is expected to have a lifecycle similar to RHEL, with approximately 10 years of maintenance and support, including security updates and bug fixes.

16. Is Rocky Linux suitable for production environments?

Yes, Rocky Linux is designed specifically for production environments requiring stability, security, and long-term support, making it ideal for servers, cloud deployments, and enterprise applications.

17. How does Rocky Linux ensure stability?

Rocky Linux rebuilds RHEL packages using the same source code and applies rigorous testing before release, ensuring binary compatibility and stability comparable to RHEL.

18. Is Rocky Linux supported commercially?

While Rocky Linux itself is community-driven, many third-party vendors offer commercial support services for Rocky Linux deployments, similar to support models for CentOS.

19. Can I run Rocky Linux in the cloud?

Yes, Rocky Linux images are available for major cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform, allowing easy deployment in cloud environments.

20. How active is the Rocky Linux community?

The Rocky Linux community is very active, with contributors worldwide. They maintain mailing lists, forums, IRC channels, and social media to collaborate and support users.

21. Does Rocky Linux have a desktop version?

While primarily focused on server use, Rocky Linux can be installed with desktop environments like GNOME or KDE, providing a stable workstation platform for enterprise desktop use.

22. Can I run containers on Rocky Linux?

Yes, Rocky Linux supports container technologies such as Docker, Podman, and Kubernetes, making it suitable for modern containerized application deployments.

23. How do I get support for Rocky Linux?

Users can get support through community forums, mailing lists, IRC channels, and official documentation. Additionally, commercial support may be available from third-party providers.

24. How is security handled in Rocky Linux?

Rocky Linux benefits from RHEL’s security model, including SELinux enabled by default, timely security updates, and compatibility with enterprise security tools.

25. Can I customize Rocky Linux?

Yes, Rocky Linux is highly customizable, allowing you to build custom installations, add or remove packages, and configure it to fit specific workloads and environments.

26. How do Rocky Linux updates work?

Updates are managed via the dnf package manager and come from official Rocky Linux repositories. Users can apply updates manually or configure automatic updates for security patches.

27. Is Rocky Linux compatible with RHEL software?

Yes, Rocky Linux is fully compatible with software certified for RHEL, allowing users to run enterprise applications and middleware without modification.

28. What is the difference between Rocky Linux and CentOS Stream?

CentOS Stream is a rolling pre-release distribution positioned as an upstream development branch for RHEL, whereas Rocky Linux is a stable downstream rebuild designed for production use.

29. How do I contribute to Rocky Linux?

You can contribute by participating in development, reporting bugs, submitting patches, helping with documentation, or supporting the community through forums and social media.

30. Where can I find official Rocky Linux documentation?

Official documentation is available on the Rocky Linux website and GitHub repositories, providing installation guides, administration manuals, and development resources.

If you’d like, I can also help with more specific questions or detailed guides related to Rocky Linux!

The community enterprise operating system. Stable, free, and 100% RHEL compatible. The reliable successor to CentOS.

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