Linux Distributions
Choosing the right Linux distribution is crucial for stability, security, and maintainability. I have been working with various distributions for over 25 years—from community systems to enterprise platforms—and select them based on their area of application, support cycles, and integration capabilities. My focus is on long-term maintainable, security-hardened setups with a clear package base and reproducible build processes.
Debian & Ubuntu Distributions
Debian and Ubuntu form the basis of many of my server and cloud setups.
Both distributions stand for stability, large software repositories, and excellent automatability.
If you rely on open-source technologies to reduce operating costs and maintain full control over your systems, this is the right choice for you.
Debian and Ubuntu can be used to implement almost all modern infrastructure and platform components – from KVM virtualization and Docker containers to Kubernetes clusters.
This makes these systems an ideal basis for self-hosting, data center operations, and training environments – completely license-free and maintainable in the long term.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux & derivatives
For productive enterprise environments, I prefer to use RHEL, Rocky Linux, or Oracle Linux, especially for enterprise virtualization or security-critical projects.
- KVM/OLVM virtualization, SELinux hardening
- YUM/DNF-based package management, repository maintenance
- Integration with Active Directory, Kerberos, SSSD
- Lifecycle management and compliance according to RHEL standards
Specialized and edge distributions
In addition to classic server distributions, I specifically use specialized platforms—for security gateways, edge systems, container hosts, or lean training environments.
They enable customized, efficient solutions outside of classic enterprise stacks.
- OPNsense (FreeBSD-based): Firewall, routing, and VPN platform for DMZ and site networking. Integration into monitoring, LDAP, and central automation.
- Alpine Linux: Minimalist container base for Docker, Kubernetes, and edge nodes.
- openSUSE / SLES (supplementary): Selective use in customer environments, e.g., for special compatibility requirements or SAP-related systems.
Trainings
You can find specific trainings and current topics in the Comelio GmbH training catalog.
Available in-house at your company, as a webinar, or as an open training—designed to meet different requirements.
Frequently asked questions about Linux Distributions
In this FAQ, you will find the topics that come up most frequently in consultations and training sessions. Each answer is kept brief and refers to further content where necessary. Can’t find your question? Feel free to contact me.
Which distribution for which purpose?
Debian/Ubuntu score points with large repositories, automatability, and a broad community—ideal for cloud/containers and self-hosting. RHEL/Rocky/Oracle Linux deliver a conservative lifecycle, SELinux, and enterprise integration. openSUSE/SLES complements certain compatibilities (e.g., SAP-related).
How do I plan release and patch strategies?
Define LTS/ESU/EUS cycles, check HWE/kernels, define staging rings (Dev/Stage/Prod). Pin repos, use backports consciously, automate security updates, and make everything traceable via IaC (Ansible/Git).
Mixed operation or migration – does it make sense?
Define LTS/ESU/EUS cycles, check HWE/kernels, define staging rings (Dev/Stage/Prod). Pin repos, use backports consciously, automate security updates, and make everything traceable via IaC (Ansible/Git).