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Top 4 Operating Systems on AWS: Which One Should You Choose?

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When deploying servers on Amazon Web Services (AWS), one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right operating system. Whether you’re setting up a scalable web application, a secure hosting environment, or an enterprise-grade solution, AWS offers several OS options tailored to different needs.

This article highlights the top four operating systems on AWS, plus one additional enterprise favorite, to help you make an informed decision.

1. CloudLinux – Purpose-Built for Shared Hosting

CloudLinux is a specialized Linux distribution created specifically for shared hosting providers. It enhances server security and stability by isolating users and managing resource usage efficiently.

Key Features:

  • Purpose: Secure multi-user hosting environments
  • Target Audience: Hosting providers and shared hosting clients
  • License: Paid (subscription-based)
  • Security: Advanced tools like CageFS and LVE
  • Resource Management: Lightweight Virtual Environment (LVE) ensures fair resource usage
  • User Interface: Command-line only
  • Software Compatibility: Optimized for Linux-based web applications
  • Use Case: Shared and reseller hosting
  • AWS Availability: Available via the AWS Marketplace

Cost: Requires a subscription in addition to AWS instance costs

2. Amazon Linux 2 – Built for AWS Performance

Amazon Linux 2 is AWS’s own Linux distribution, designed for deep integration with the AWS ecosystem. It’s optimized for performance, security, and seamless interaction with AWS tools and services.

Key Features:

  • Purpose: Performance-optimized for AWS
  • Target Audience: AWS-native developers and cloud teams
  • License: Free (usage costs apply with AWS instances)
  • Security: Integrates with AWS security tools, frequent updates
  • Resource Management: Efficient handling of cloud workloads
  • User Interface: Command-line by default, GUI support with customization
  • Software Compatibility: Supports most AWS-native services
  • Use Case: EC2 workloads, serverless apps, containers
  • AWS Availability: Available as an official AMI

Cost: Free, aside from AWS instance usage

3. Ubuntu – A Popular, Developer-Friendly Linux

Ubuntu is a widely adopted Linux distribution maintained by Canonical. Known for its user-friendliness and large software ecosystem, it is ideal for developers, containerization, and general-purpose servers.

Key Features:

  • Purpose: General-purpose Linux with strong community support
  • Target Audience: Developers, system administrators, and general users
  • License: Free and open-source
  • Security: Regular updates and security patches from Canonical
  • Resource Management: Standard Linux resource tools
  • User Interface: Both CLI and GUI available
  • Software Compatibility: Massive repository of open-source software
  • Use Case: Web development, containers, test environments
  • AWS Availability: Available as an official AMI

Cost: Free; AWS usage charges apply

4. Windows Server – Best for Microsoft-Based Applications

Windows Server is the go-to choice for organizations that rely on Microsoft tools and enterprise-grade Windows applications. It provides full Windows functionality in the cloud, including desktop environments and support for legacy applications.

Key Features:

  • Purpose: Enterprise support for Windows-based applications
  • Target Audience: Businesses using Microsoft technologies
  • License: Paid (Windows license required)
  • Security: Built-in features, requires ongoing management
  • Resource Management: Managed via Windows tools
  • User Interface: Full graphical user interface
  • Software Compatibility: Supports .NET, SQL Server, and other Microsoft platforms
  • Use Case: Enterprise environments, legacy software, Windows apps
  • AWS Availability: Available as an official AMI

Cost: Licensing fees apply in addition to AWS charges

Bonus: Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) – Enterprise Stability and Support

RHEL is a trusted name in enterprise IT environments. Known for its reliability and support options, it’s well-suited for mission-critical workloads and large-scale enterprise operations.

Key Features:

  • Purpose: Enterprise-grade operating system with long-term support
  • Target Audience: Corporations and government agencies
  • License: Paid (subscription required)
  • Security: Enterprise security patches and tools
  • Resource Management: Highly configurable with advanced enterprise tools
  • User Interface: Command-line and optional GUI
  • Software Compatibility: Certified for containers, cloud-native apps, and more
  • Use Case: Databases, business applications, regulatory compliance
  • AWS Availability: Available as an official AMI

Cost: Subscription fees for Red Hat support

Summary: Which OS is Right for You?

Use CaseRecommended OS
Shared hosting and web serversCloudLinux
AWS-native applicationsAmazon Linux 2
General development and Linux versatilityUbuntu
Windows-based enterprise workloadsWindows Server
Stable enterprise workloadsRHEL

Choosing the right OS on AWS depends on your specific requirements: performance, licensing, compatibility, and support. Whether you’re launching a basic development instance or running mission-critical workloads, there’s an ideal OS for your use case on AWS.

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