By Gregory Kurtzer, founder and CEO, CIQ

CentOS 7 reached its end-of-life in 2024, marking a pivotal moment for enterprises that still rely on it. While challenging, this shift also creates an opportunity for organizations to modernize their infrastructure and strengthen their security posture. The key is to be proactive and embrace change so you can avoid unnecessary risks.

CentOS, which I co-created, was once a cornerstone of Enterprise Linux. It powered nearly 30% of Linux-based web servers in 2010, and was once the most utilized and installed Linux distribution among companies and professional IT staff while providing full compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) without the licensing costs. Over the years, the landscape evolved. Red Hat took over control of CentOS in 2014, IBM acquired Red Hat in 2019, and in 2020, Red Hat announced the end of life of CentOS with CentOS 7 reaching its end-of-life in June 2024. Now that we're in 2025, it's time for organizations to move forward and seize the opportunity to upgrade to modern, more secure and supported systems.

CentOS 7 is Risky

Even though CentOS 7 is no longer being actively maintained by the community, there are still a large number of organizations that have not migrated off of it yet and with no official updates or security patches since June 2024, CentOS 7 instances are now vulnerable to emerging threats. Cybersecurity risks grow over time as new vulnerabilities are discovered and exploited. Unsupported operating systems become targets for malicious actors, putting sensitive data and critical operations at risk.

However, this doesn't have to be a doom-and-gloom scenario. With a complete and careful plan to migrate, organizations can mitigate these risks and position themselves for long-term success. The transition may seem daunting, but it's also an opportunity to assess current infrastructure, adopt modern technologies, and improve operational efficiency.

Solutions for a Smooth Transition

Many organizations are already exploring their options. Rocky Linux, a community-driven, RHEL-compatible distribution, has emerged as the primary choice for enterprises seeking a seamless transition from CentOS. Designed as a drop-in replacement, Rocky Linux allows businesses to maintain compatibility without overhauling their infrastructure. This continuity makes it easier to migrate while minimizing disruptions.

For those needing more time, extended vendor support services, such as CIQ Bridge, can provide critical updates and patches until 2027. While this approach buys time, it's essential to treat it as a temporary measure. The ultimate goal should be migrating to a fully supported operating system to ensure long-term security and stability.

Time to move on from CentOS 7

The end-of-life for CentOS 7 is not the end of the road but rather a chance to move forward with confidence. Organizations that embrace this transition can strengthen their security, enhance their operations, and build a foundation for future growth.

If you're still relying on CentOS 7, now is the time to take action. Evaluate your options, create a migration plan, and start the journey toward a supported, modern operating system. If you need help, organizations like CIQ are there for you.

With the right approach, 2025 can be the year your organization turns a potential challenge into a strategic advantage.