CentOS Stream 9 on Microsoft Azure

Deploy CentOS Stream 9 on Azure Virtual Machines with this lightweight, continuously delivered, and RHEL-upstream image. Packaged and maintained by ProComputers, it is optimized for cloud-init automation, fast boot, and development or pre-production workloads — the perfect choice for users who need early access to features before they appear in Red Hat Enterprise Linux.

Key Features

• Upstream RHEL development: CentOS Stream 9 is a rolling-release, tracking just ahead of RHEL.
• Cloud-init enabled: Automates provisioning and config for faster, repeatable cloud workflows.
• Optimized for fast boot: Tuned for Azure Managed Disks to cut startup times and boost responsiveness.
• Secure by default: SELinux enforced and SSH hardened to reduce risks and meet enterprise standards.
• Accelerated Networking: Provides low-latency, high-throughput networking for modern cloud apps.
• Continuous updates: Rolling-release model delivers frequent updates and latest improvements.

Benefits of Using CentOS Stream 9 in Azure Cloud

• Future-ready development: Preview features coming in the next RHEL 9 minor release.
• Rolling-release lifecycle: Continuous updates ideal for testing, CI/CD, and agile workflows.
• Community-driven distribution: Built with CentOS and Red Hat communities for transparency.
• Lightweight and efficient: Fast boot and streamlined operation for dev and test in the cloud.
• Ideal for pre-production: Perfect for developers, DevOps teams, and RHEL migration planning.

Use Cases

• Develop and test apps: Align software with the next RHEL release before general availability.
• Build CI/CD pipelines: Validate code against future RHEL using Ansible, Terraform, or Azure DevOps.
• Run containers: Use Kubernetes or OpenShift with a rolling-release base for cloud-native workloads.
• Experiment with features: Gain early access to Linux innovations before they land in RHEL releases.
• Deploy pre-production: Stage servers that mirror upcoming RHEL for testing and compatibility checks.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is CentOS Stream 9 RHEL-compatible? CentOS Stream 9 is upstream of RHEL 9. It provides a rolling preview of the next RHEL minor release. While closely aligned, it is not bug-for-bug identical with RHEL.
• Can I use it for production? CentOS Stream 9 is best suited for development, testing, and pre-production. For stable, long-term support in production, consider Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, or RHEL itself.
• Who maintains this image? The VM image is packaged and maintained by ProComputers, ensuring quality, reliability, and ongoing updates for Azure users.

Explore our other Azure Marketplace VM images

• Oracle Linux 8
• Oracle Linux 9
• RHEL 8
• RHEL 9
• AlmaLinux 8
• AlmaLinux 9
• Rocky Linux 8
• Rocky Linux 9
• CentOS 9
• CentOS 10

Red Hat and CentOS are trademarks or registered trademarks of Red Hat, Inc. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Red Hat or the CentOS Project. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.