For updates, CentOS relies on the tested and trusted Red Had Enterprise Linux update network. This means that all of the packages that come through are identical, and CentOS maintains binary compatibility with Red Hat. This means you get an enterprise OS for free.

The catch with CentOS is that you do not get any of the commercial support (although it is optional) or guarantees such as warranties. In other words, if it messes up, no one will fix it but you. For leased dedicated servers, however, the hosting provider may offer support for it, making it a win-win for both the provider, who does not have to pay licensing fees to a vendor, and the user, who still gets quality support.

If you are interested in trying CentOS, you can download it from the project’s website.