As CentOS 7 approaches its End-of-Life (EOL) in June 2024, thousands of system administrators and hosting providers are seeking reliable alternatives. One of the most popular and powerful options is CloudLinux OS, a distribution specifically built for shared hosting environments. If you're running CentOS 7 on your server and want to maintain security, performance, and long-term support, migrating from CentOS 7 to CloudLinux is an essential step.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the entire centos 7 to cloud linux process. From the benefits of switching, to the tools you'll need, to the exact commands required for a seamless transition—we've got you covered.
Why Migrate from CentOS 7 to CloudLinux?
Before jumping into the technical steps, it's important to understand why you should migrate your server to CloudLinux. Here are the key benefits:
Extended Support: While CentOS 7 reaches EOL in 2024, CloudLinux offers Extended Lifecycle Support (ELS), ensuring continued security updates and support.
Stability and Performance: CloudLinux enhances server stability by isolating users and optimizing resource allocation.
Security Enhancements: Features like CageFS, HardenedPHP, and SecureLinks make your server more secure.
Improved Resource Management: With LVE (Lightweight Virtual Environment) and MySQL Governor, you can control resource usage more precisely.
If you host multiple websites or clients, CloudLinux provides the scalability and isolation that CentOS lacks out-of-the-box.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before Migrating
Before you convert CentOS to CloudLinux, make sure you meet the following prerequisites:
Current OS: A clean and updated installation of CentOS 7 (x86_64 architecture).
Root Access: You must have SSH access with root privileges.
Valid CloudLinux License: Purchase a CloudLinux license or use the free trial for testing.
Data Backup: Always back up your server before making major system changes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Migrate from CentOS 7 to CloudLinux
Let’s dive into the actual migration process. These steps will guide you through CloudLinux installation on CentOS and ensure everything goes smoothly.
Step 1: Register or Purchase Your CloudLinux License
Before starting the installation, get a CloudLinux license. You can register for a trial or buy a license directly from the CloudLinux website.
Step 2: Run the Conversion Script
After downloading the deployment script, you can start the CentOS 7 to CloudLinux migration with the following command:
Replace YOUR_LICENSE_KEY with your actual CloudLinux license key. If you’re using a trial, leave it blank and the script will proceed in trial mode.
Step 3: Wait for the Conversion to Complete
The script will:
Update the system
Replace CentOS 7 packages with CloudLinux equivalents
Register your system with CloudLinux Network (CLN)
This process can take several minutes depending on your server’s resources.
Step 4: Reboot the Server
Once the conversion is done, you need to reboot your server to boot into the CloudLinux kernel:
Step 5: Verify the Installation
After rebooting, verify that you’re now running CloudLinux:
You should see a kernel version with the lve tag (e.g., 3.10.0-962.3.2.lve1.5.52.el7.x86_64).
To further confirm:
Output should look like:
CloudLinux Server release 7.X
Step 6: Install CloudLinux Tools
Once you’ve successfully migrated, you should install the essential CloudLinux utilities for resource management and security.
To enable CageFS (user isolation feature):
Post-Migration Configuration
Now that your server is running CloudLinux, you can take advantage of its advanced features.
Enable LVE Manager
If you’re using a control panel like cPanel or Plesk, you can access LVE Manager from the dashboard. LVE Manager lets you:
Limit CPU, memory, and I/O usage per user
Monitor real-time usage
Set alerts and auto-kill processes
Harden Your Environment
CloudLinux includes HardenedPHP, which allows you to run old, unsupported PHP versions securely. You can also enable SecureLinks to prevent symlink attacks.
To install HardenedPHP:
Then configure it within your control panel.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Missing Kernel
If your system doesn’t boot into the CloudLinux kernel after rebooting, ensure the bootloader was updated correctly:
License Activation Failed
Check internet connectivity and ensure the correct license key is being used. Run:
To reattempt license activation.
Final Thoughts
With CentOS 7 no longer receiving updates, sticking with it is a security risk. Fortunately, migrating from CentOS 7 to CloudLinux provides a seamless and robust path forward. Whether you're managing a single server or a large hosting infrastructure, CloudLinux offers unmatched control, stability, and security.
By following this step-by-step CloudLinux installation on CentOS tutorial, you’ve ensured your server is future-proof and optimized for performance. You’ve successfully converted CentOS to CloudLinux—a move that will benefit your infrastructure for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I revert back to CentOS after migration?
While technically possible, reverting is complex and not recommended. It's best to back up your system before the conversion.
Does CloudLinux support cPanel and Plesk?
Yes, CloudLinux is fully compatible with both cPanel and Plesk, making it a great choice for shared hosting environments.
Is CloudLinux free?
CloudLinux is a commercial product, but they do offer a free trial. Pricing is based on the number of servers or accounts.
Whether you're planning to centos 7 to cloud linux today or researching the process, this guide should serve as a reliable reference for 2025 and beyond. Make the move now and enjoy peace of mind with extended support and superior server performance.
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