Ubuntu Tips n Tricks

8 More Linux Distributions for Web Server

Posted: 29 Jun 2010 10:26 AM PDT

8 More Linux Distributions for Web Server: I've already shared with you a list of some of the best and most well-known Linux distributions used on web servers. However, there are still plenty of excellent server-oriented Linux distros that I failed to mention there. So I think it is important to make a follow up post and bring you another round of Linux distributions for web server.

ClearOS

Based on CentOS, ClearOS is a network and gateway server especially made for small businesses and distributed environments. It offers a comprehensive list of integrated services that are easy to configure through its intuitive and user-friendly web-based interface. ClearOS also features several essential tools and modules that include antispam, antivirus, content filtering, VPN, bandwidth manager, SSL certification, web log analyzer, etc. The distribution is available as a free download including free security updates for 18 months.

EnGarde Secure Linux

EnGarde Secure Linux is a server-oriented distribution that offers services like web, DNS, and the ability to email simply and securely without the need for laborious 'hardening' done by the user. It also provides integrated intrusion detection, advanced kernel and network security features, and graphical auditing and reporting, which can all be controlled through its simplified browser-based management system called Guardian Digital WebTool.

Openwall GNU/*/Linux

Openwall GNU/*/Linux, 'Owl' for short, is a security-enhanced operating system with Linux and GNU software as its core and is intended for use as server platform. Its patches and security extensions have been included into many major Linux distributions. Openwall GNU/*/Linux pulls source code and design concepts from several sources including parts of the GNU userland and OpenBSD for its OpenSSH suite and the inspiration behind its own blowfish-based crypt for password hashing.

SME Server

SME Server is a simple, powerful, and secure Linux server that is based on CentOS, which utilizes publicly available open source Red Hat Enterprise Linux sources. Joseph and Kim Morrison created it in January 1999. The company introduced the first version of its flagship software product, the e-smith server and gateway, in April 1999. It has since been used by thousands of individuals, companies and organizations all over the world.

StartCom Linux

Based on the Red Hat AS source code, StartCom Enterprise Linux is the optimum solution for middle-size servers to large data centers. Its latest version supports the largest commodity-architecture servers with up to 16 CPUs and 64GB (on x86 systems) of main memory, Global File System - for highly scalable, high performance data sharing in multi-system configurations. StartCom Linux offers a comprehensive collection of open source server applications like mail, file (SMB/NFS), DNS, web, FTP, and a complete desktop environment.

Turbolinux

Turbolinux is made from the ground-up to cater to enterprise computing needs. Turbolinux 7 Server was the first-ever to conform to Internationalization standards to help simplify development of applications that need multiple language support. It also supports the Large File Support (LFS) standard for working with applications that control or manage up to four terabytes of data - a standard prerequisite for infrastructures serving Fortune 500 and larger companies. Such industrial-strength environments produce the fundamental point upon which PowerCockpit and other Turbolinux innovations were created.

Zeroshell

Zeroshell is a small Linux distribution for servers and embedded devices. It has a main objective of providing network services in a simple and efficient way. You can get it in the form of live CD or compact Flash image, and it can be configured through a web browser. Some of the main features of Zeroshell include: load balancing and failover of multiple Internet connections, UMTS/HSDPA connections by using 3G modems, RADIUS server for providing secure authentication and automatic management of encryption keys to wireless networks, captive portal to support web login, and many more.

Superb Mini Server

Superb Mini Server (SMS) is a Slackware-based server distribution that can be managed through its web interface. Even though considered as a mini server, it has all the features of a powerful web server and contains packages such as apache2, sendmail, postfix, spamassassin, clamav, squid, iptables, MailScanner, mysql, cups and a whole lot more. SMS also has a full-featured php based bit torrent client that can be managed and accessed from anywhere.