Oracle Linux 10 Overview: Performance, Security, and Enterprise Focus
In the ever-evolving world of enterprise computing, choosing the right operating system is critical for organizations aiming to balance performance, security, and scalability. Oracle Linux 10, which reached general availability (GA) on June 26, 2025, emerges as a robust, enterprise-grade Linux distribution designed to meet the demands of modern business environments. Built on the foundation of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) 10, Oracle Linux 10 introduces cutting-edge features, enhanced security, and unparalleled performance optimizations, making it a compelling choice for mission-critical workloads.
This blog post dives deep into the Oracle Linux 10 overview, exploring its performance capabilities, security enhancements, and enterprise-focused features for readers searching for insights on this latest release.
What is Oracle Linux 10?
Oracle Linux 10 is a downstream derivative of RHEL 10, offering 100% application binary compatibility with its upstream counterpart. Engineered by Oracle, a key player in the Linux community, this distribution is tailored for enterprise workloads, supporting both x86_64 and 64-bit ARM (AArch64) architectures. It powers Oracle’s public cloud, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), and several Oracle engineered systems, such as the Oracle Exadata Database Machine and Oracle Database Appliance. With its Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel (UEK) 8.1, Oracle Linux 10 delivers the latest Linux innovations while maintaining stability and performance for business-critical applications.
This release builds on Oracle’s legacy of providing a secure, scalable, and reliable operating system, backed by comprehensive support and a commitment to open-source principles through the Open Enterprise Linux Association (OpenELA). Whether you’re running large-scale databases, cloud-native applications, or edge computing solutions, Oracle Linux 10 is designed to meet the needs of modern enterprises.
Performance Enhancements in Oracle Linux 10
Performance is a cornerstone of Oracle Linux 10, with significant updates that cater to compute-intensive and data-driven workloads. Let’s explore the key performance features that make this release stand out.
Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel (UEK) 8.1
At the heart of Oracle Linux 10’s performance lies the Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel 8 Update 1 (UEK 8.1), based on Linux 6.12 LTS. This kernel incorporates advanced memory management, enhanced file system support, and networking optimizations. Oracle has also pulled in select device drivers from Linux 6.15 stable, such as Broadcom storage drivers, to ensure compatibility with modern hardware. Unlike the Red Hat Compatible Kernel (RHCK), which aligns closely with RHEL’s kernel, UEK 8.1 includes Oracle-specific enhancements for better performance and security.
Key performance benefits of UEK 8.1 include:
- Improved Memory Management: Optimizations in memory allocation and deallocation enhance the efficiency of resource-intensive applications, such as Oracle Database and high-performance computing (HPC) workloads.
- Enhanced File System Support: Support for modern file systems like Btrfs, which Oracle has contributed to, ensures robust data integrity and scalability.
- Networking Optimizations: Advanced networking capabilities improve throughput and reduce latency, making Oracle Linux 10 ideal for cloud and edge environments.
For organizations that prefer compatibility with RHEL, Oracle Linux 10 also offers the RHCK as an alternative, ensuring flexibility without sacrificing performance.
Support for Modern Architectures
Oracle Linux 10 supports the latest x86 and ARM architectures, making it versatile for on-premises, multicloud, and edge deployments. This broad hardware compatibility ensures that enterprises can deploy Oracle Linux 10 on a wide range of servers and workstations, from traditional data centers to modern cloud environments. The inclusion of ARM support is particularly significant, as it caters to the growing adoption of ARM-based servers in energy-efficient, high-performance computing scenarios.
Developer Tooling Advancements
Oracle Linux 10 introduces modernized developer tools that streamline application development and deployment. These tools include updated compilers, libraries, and containerization frameworks, enabling developers to build cloud-native applications with ease. The operating system’s compatibility with Kubernetes and other container orchestration platforms makes it a strong choice for DevOps teams looking to automate and scale their workflows.
Security Features in Oracle Linux 10
Security is a top priority for enterprises, and Oracle Linux 10 delivers a comprehensive security stack designed to protect mission-critical workloads. From post-quantum cryptography to zero-downtime patching, Oracle Linux 10 sets a high standard for enterprise security.
Post-Quantum Cryptography
One of the standout features of Oracle Linux 10 is its support for post-quantum cryptography (PQC). As quantum computing advances, traditional cryptographic algorithms face potential vulnerabilities. Oracle Linux 10 integrates modernized cryptographic capabilities to future-proof enterprise systems against quantum-based attacks. This is particularly crucial for industries like finance, healthcare, and government, where data security is paramount.
Ksplice for Zero-Downtime Patching
Oracle’s Ksplice technology allows administrators to apply security patches and updates without rebooting the system, ensuring zero downtime for critical applications. This live-patching capability is a game-changer for enterprises that cannot afford service disruptions. By applying patches in memory, Ksplice helps organizations stay ahead of security vulnerabilities while maintaining continuous availability. Oracle Linux 10’s support for Ksplice reinforces its position as a reliable choice for mission-critical environments.
Secure by Default
Oracle Linux 10 is designed to be “secure by default,” incorporating a robust security stack that includes:
- nftables Framework: Replacing the older iptables, the nftables framework offers improved performance and advanced packet filtering capabilities. It leverages Netfilter infrastructure for stateful packet classification, enhancing network security.
- SELinux Enabled by Default: Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux) provides mandatory access controls, offering stronger protection against unauthorized access compared to traditional Discretionary Access Control (DAC) policies.
Cryptographic Signatures: All Oracle Linux RPM packages are signed, allowing administrators to verify the authenticity and provenance of software downloads, reducing the risk of supply chain attacks.
Minimizing the Attack Surface
Oracle Linux 10 encourages minimal software installations to reduce the attack surface. By installing only the necessary packages, organizations can limit potential vulnerabilities. Tools like Oracle Enterprise Manager Ops Center and pretested Kickstart profiles enable precise control over software installations, further enhancing security. Administrators can also use the RPM package manager to verify the integrity of installed files, ensuring that systems remain uncompromised.
Compliance and Auditing Tools
Oracle Linux 10 supports compliance management through integration with Oracle Enterprise Manager, which includes SCAP (Security Content Automation Protocol) compliance standards. These standards allow administrators to ensure that systems meet industry-specific security requirements. Additionally, tools like Oracle Linux Manager and Oracle OS Management Hub automate the application of security updates, simplifying compliance and auditing processes.
Enterprise Focus in Oracle Linux 10
Oracle Linux 10 is engineered for enterprise-grade workloads, offering features that prioritize scalability, reliability, and ease of management. Its tight integration with Oracle’s ecosystem and support for open-source initiatives make it a versatile solution for businesses of all sizes.
100% RHEL Compatibility
As a member of the OpenELA, Oracle Linux 10 maintains 100% application binary compatibility with RHEL 10. This ensures that applications developed for RHEL can run seamlessly on Oracle Linux 10, providing organizations with flexibility and choice. Whether migrating from RHEL, AlmaLinux, or Rocky Linux, enterprises can adopt Oracle Linux 10 without worrying about compatibility issues.
Integration with Oracle Ecosystem
Oracle Linux 10 is the recommended Linux distribution for Oracle applications, including Oracle Database, Oracle E-Business Suite, and Oracle PeopleSoft. Its tight integration with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and Oracle engineered systems ensures optimal performance and reliability for Oracle workloads. For example, Oracle Database runs on Oracle Linux because of its proven security, performance, and stability, as highlighted in Oracle’s technical papers.
Automation and Management Tools
Oracle Linux 10 includes a suite of automation and management tools to streamline system administration:
- Oracle Linux Automation Manager: This Ansible-based tool automates manual processes in DevOps, improving scalability and productivity.
- Oracle OS Management Hub: A next-generation service for managing updates and patches across Oracle and non-Oracle software repositories, accessible through a single OCI console.
- Oracle Enterprise Manager: Provides comprehensive monitoring, provisioning, and compliance management capabilities, allowing administrators to manage thousands of servers from a single interface.
These tools reduce operational overhead, enabling IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance.
Support for Cloud and Edge Deployments
Oracle Linux 10 is designed for modern computing environments, including on-premises, multicloud, and edge deployments. Its support for the KVM hypervisor and containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes makes it ideal for virtualized and cloud-native workloads. The operating system’s low-overhead virtualization tools improve performance and reduce costs, making it a cost-effective choice for enterprises scaling their infrastructure.
Open-Source Commitment
Oracle’s participation in the Linux community, including contributions to the Oracle Cluster File System and Btrfs, underscores its commitment to open-source principles. Oracle Linux 10 is free to download and distribute, with source code available through OpenELA. This open-source foundation, combined with Oracle’s enterprise support, provides organizations with the best of both worlds: community-driven innovation and commercial-grade reliability.
Why Choose Oracle Linux 10?
Oracle Linux 10 stands out as a premier choice for enterprises due to its unique combination of performance, security, and enterprise-focused features. Here are some key reasons to consider Oracle Linux 10 for your organization:
- Performance: UEK 8.1 and modern architecture support ensure top-tier performance for demanding workloads.
- Security: Post-quantum cryptography, Ksplice, and a secure-by-default design protect against evolving threats.
- Enterprise Readiness: Full RHEL compatibility, integration with Oracle’s ecosystem, and robust management tools make it ideal for mission-critical applications.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Free to download with comprehensive support options, Oracle Linux 10 offers enterprise-grade features without breaking the bank.
- Flexibility: Support for x86, ARM, cloud, and edge environments ensures versatility across diverse deployment scenarios.
Getting Started with Oracle Linux 10
Oracle Linux 10 is available for download from the Oracle Linux website, with options to try it on the Oracle Cloud Free Tier. Organizations can request a demo with Oracle product experts to explore its capabilities further. For those migrating from other Linux distributions, Oracle provides guides, such as the CentOS 7 to Oracle Linux 8 migration guide, which can be adapted for Oracle Linux 10.
To ensure optimal performance and security, Oracle recommends keeping systems updated with the latest release packages. The Unbreakable Linux Network (ULN) and Oracle’s public yum repository provide timely security updates and errata, while tools like Ksplice enable zero-downtime patching.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog post about Oracle Linux 10 is based on publicly available data from Oracle’s official website, technical documentation, and other reliable sources as of June 28, 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and completeness, the content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Features, specifications, and availability of Oracle Linux 10 may change, and users are encouraged to verify details through official Oracle channels, such as www.oracle.com/linux, before making decisions based on this information.
The author and publisher are not affiliated with Oracle beyond using publicly available resources. Any references to Oracle products, services, or subscriptions, including pricing or availability, should be confirmed directly with Oracle. The author assumes no liability for any errors, omissions, or damages resulting from the use of this information. Always consult with IT professionals or Oracle support for guidance on deploying Oracle Linux 10 in your environment.
Conclusion
Oracle Linux 10 represents a significant leap forward in enterprise Linux distributions, combining cutting-edge performance, robust security, and a strong focus on enterprise needs. With features like UEK 8.1, post-quantum cryptography, and Ksplice, it addresses the challenges of modern computing environments while maintaining compatibility with RHEL 10. Its integration with Oracle’s ecosystem, support for cloud and edge deployments, and commitment to open-source principles make it a versatile and reliable choice for organizations worldwide.
Whether you’re running Oracle Database, deploying cloud-native applications, or securing mission-critical workloads, Oracle Linux 10 offers the tools and capabilities to succeed. As enterprises navigate the complexities of digital transformation, Oracle Linux 10 stands ready to deliver the performance, security, and scalability needed to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
For more information, visit the Oracle Linux website or explore the Oracle Linux blog for the latest updates and insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Oracle Linux 10
What is Oracle Linux 10, and who is it for?
Oracle Linux 10 is the latest enterprise-grade Linux distribution from Oracle, released on June 26, 2025. It’s built to be super reliable and secure, with top-notch performance for businesses running things like databases, cloud applications, or edge computing setups. If you’re an IT admin, a developer working on cloud-native apps, or a business looking for a stable, RHEL-compatible Linux distro, this is for you. It’s especially great for folks using Oracle products like Oracle Database or Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, but it’s flexible enough for any enterprise workload.
How does Oracle Linux 10 differ from Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) 10?
Oracle Linux 10 is 100% binary compatible with RHEL 10, so apps built for RHEL will run on it without a hitch. The big difference is Oracle’s Unbreakable Enterprise Kernel (UEK 8.1), which has extra optimizations for performance and security, like better memory management and support for modern hardware. Plus, Oracle throws in unique features like Ksplice for zero-downtime patching and tight integration with their cloud and database systems. You also get the choice of using the Red Hat Compatible Kernel if you want to stick closer to RHEL’s setup.
What makes Oracle Linux 10 secure for enterprise use?
Security is a huge focus for Oracle Linux 10. It comes with cool features like post-quantum cryptography to protect against future quantum computing threats, and Ksplice, which lets you patch the system without rebooting—perfect for keeping critical apps running. It’s also secure by default with SELinux, signed RPM packages, and the nftables framework for better network protection. Oracle’s tools like Enterprise Manager and OS Management Hub make it easy to stay compliant and keep vulnerabilities in check.
Can I use Oracle Linux 10 for free, and what’s the support like?
Yup, Oracle Linux 10 is free to download, use, and distribute, with source code available through the Open Enterprise Linux Association (OpenELA). You can grab it from Oracle’s website or try it on the Oracle Cloud Free Tier. If you need support, Oracle offers enterprise-grade options with 24/7 assistance, security updates via the Unbreakable Linux Network (ULN), and tools like Oracle Linux Manager. For specific support details or pricing, check out www.oracle.com/linux.
How do I get started with Oracle Linux 10?
Getting started is pretty straightforward! Head to the Oracle Linux website to download the ISO or access it via Oracle Cloud Infrastructure for a test run. If you’re migrating from another distro like CentOS or RHEL, Oracle provides guides to make the switch smooth—check their migration resources for tips. You can also use tools like Oracle Linux Automation Manager or Kickstart profiles to set up and manage your systems. If you want hands-on help, Oracle offers demos with their experts to walk you through the setup process.
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