{"id":12004,"date":"2025-11-18T10:14:55","date_gmt":"2025-11-18T10:14:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/?p=12004"},"modified":"2026-02-25T05:55:46","modified_gmt":"2026-02-25T05:55:46","slug":"migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Migrating from CentOS 7 to AlmaLinux 9: A Complete Guide for Production Servers"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n<p>With the official end of life of CentOS 7 in June 2024, thousands of production servers were suddenly left without security patches, bug fixes, or vendor support. For companies that have been using CentOS as the foundation of their infrastructure, this was not just an inconvenience but a serious operational and security issue. Using an unsupported operating system increases the risk of vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and unexpected failures.<\/p>\r\n<p>However, there is a clear way out. AlmaLinux 9 is one of the most suitable alternatives to CentOS, offering full compatibility with RHEL, long-term support, and a solid foundation in the community. It provides the same level of stability and predictability that users of CentOS have been relying on, but with alignment to modern enterprise needs.<\/p>\r\n<p>This guide is intended for system administrators, DevOps engineers, and infrastructure teams who require a safe and feasible migration plan. Instead of delving into theories, it provides a real-world and production-proven migration solution from CentOS 7 to AlmaLinux 9.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Why_Migrate_from_CentOS_7_to_AlmaLinux_9\" >Why Migrate from CentOS 7 to AlmaLinux 9?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#1_CentOS_7_Is_Officially_Unsupported\" >1. CentOS 7 Is Officially Unsupported<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#2_AlmaLinux_9_Is_the_Most_Natural_Successor\" >2. AlmaLinux 9 Is the Most Natural Successor<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#3_Better_Security_and_Modern_System_Components\" >3. Better Security and Modern System Components<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#4_Future-Proofing_Your_Infrastructure\" >4. Future-Proofing Your Infrastructure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#5_A_Smarter_Move_Than_Waiting\" >5. A Smarter Move Than Waiting<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Preparing_for_Migration_Dont_Skip_This_Step\" >Preparing for Migration: Don\u2019t Skip This Step<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#1_Take_Full_Backups\" >1. Take Full Backups<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#2_Check_Hardware_Software_Compatibility\" >2. Check Hardware &amp; Software Compatibility<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#3_Update_CentOS_7_Fully\" >3. Update CentOS 7 Fully<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Step-by-Step_Migrating_CentOS_7_%E2%86%92_AlmaLinux_9\" >Step-by-Step: Migrating CentOS 7 \u2192 AlmaLinux 9<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Step_1_Install_ELevate_Tool\" >Step 1: Install ELevate Tool<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Step_2_Run_a_Pre-Upgrade_Check\" >Step 2: Run a Pre-Upgrade Check<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Step_3_Resolve_Issues\" >Step 3: Resolve Issues<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Step_4_Run_the_Upgrade_to_AlmaLinux_8\" >Step 4: Run the Upgrade to AlmaLinux 8<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Step_5_Upgrade_AlmaLinux_8_%E2%86%92_AlmaLinux_9\" >Step 5: Upgrade AlmaLinux 8 \u2192 AlmaLinux 9<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Post-Migration_Tune_and_Verify\" >Post-Migration: Tune and Verify<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Check_System_Health\" >Check System Health<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Re-enable_SELinux_if_you_disabled_it\" >Re-enable SELinux (if you disabled it)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Verify_Core_Services\" >Verify Core Services<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Hardening_AlmaLinux_9_for_Production\" >Hardening AlmaLinux 9 for Production<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Firewall_Security\" >Firewall &amp; Security<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Intrusion_Protection\" >Intrusion Protection<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Automatic_Updates\" >Automatic Updates<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Performance_Tweaks_Worth_Doing\" >Performance Tweaks Worth Doing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Lessons_from_Real_Migrations\" >Lessons from Real Migrations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Final_Thoughts\" >Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" >Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#1_Is_AlmaLinux_9_a_direct_drop-in_replacement_for_CentOS_7\" >1. Is AlmaLinux 9 a direct drop-in replacement for CentOS 7?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#2_How_long_will_AlmaLinux_9_receive_updates_and_support\" >2. How long will AlmaLinux 9 receive updates and support?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#3_Can_I_upgrade_directly_from_CentOS_7_to_AlmaLinux_9\" >3. Can I upgrade directly from CentOS 7 to AlmaLinux 9?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#4_Will_my_existing_applications_be_compatible_with_the_new_environment\" >4. Will my existing applications be compatible with the new environment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#5_Can_I_retain_my_existing_cPanel_or_Plesk_environment\" >5. Can I retain my existing cPanel or Plesk environment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#6_What_is_the_safest_rollback_option_in_case_the_migration_fails\" >6. What is the safest rollback option in case the migration fails?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#7_How_much_downtime_can_I_expect_during_the_migration_process\" >7. How much downtime can I expect during the migration process?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#8_Do_I_have_to_change_my_hosting_company_to_install_AlmaLinux_9\" >8. Do I have to change my hosting company to install AlmaLinux 9?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#9_Can_I_use_AlmaLinux_9_for_production_purposes\" >9. Can I use AlmaLinux 9 for production purposes?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#10_Where_should_I_host_a_new_AlmaLinux_9_server\" >10. Where should I host a new AlmaLinux 9 server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/#Suggestions\" >Suggestions:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"183\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Migrate_from_CentOS_7_to_AlmaLinux_9\"><\/span>Why Migrate from CentOS 7 to AlmaLinux 9?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p data-start=\"185\" data-end=\"400\">Before getting into the technical steps, it\u2019s important to understand why this migration is necessary. Moving away from CentOS 7 is no longer optional; it\u2019s a matter of security, stability, and long-term viability.<\/p>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"402\" data-end=\"443\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_CentOS_7_Is_Officially_Unsupported\"><\/span>1. CentOS 7 Is Officially Unsupported<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"445\" data-end=\"699\">As of <strong data-start=\"451\" data-end=\"468\">June 30, 2024<\/strong>, CentOS 7 reached its official end of life. This means it no longer receives security updates, bug fixes, or kernel patches. Any newly discovered vulnerability remains unpatched, leaving your servers exposed to potential exploits.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"701\" data-end=\"757\">For production environments, this creates serious risks:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li data-start=\"760\" data-end=\"799\">Increased chance of security breaches<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"802\" data-end=\"846\">Compliance issues for regulated industries<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"849\" data-end=\"893\">Compatibility problems with newer software<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"931\">Higher operational risk over time<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"933\" data-end=\"1067\">Continuing to run CentOS 7 may work in the short term, but every passing month increases the chance of failures or security incidents.<\/p>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"1069\" data-end=\"1117\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_AlmaLinux_9_Is_the_Most_Natural_Successor\"><\/span>2. AlmaLinux 9 Is the Most Natural Successor<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"1119\" data-end=\"1380\">AlmaLinux was created specifically to fill the gap left by CentOS. Built and backed by the CloudLinux team, it is <strong data-start=\"1233\" data-end=\"1291\">binary-compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)<\/strong>, meaning applications that ran on CentOS are designed to work the same way on AlmaLinux.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"1382\" data-end=\"1403\">Key benefits include:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li data-start=\"1406\" data-end=\"1440\">Full 1:1 compatibility with RHEL<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"1443\" data-end=\"1487\">Enterprise-grade stability and performance<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"1490\" data-end=\"1530\">A predictable release and update cycle<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"1533\" data-end=\"1569\">Long-term support through <strong data-start=\"1559\" data-end=\"1567\">2032<\/strong><\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"1572\" data-end=\"1619\">Free to use, with optional commercial support<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"1621\" data-end=\"1730\">For teams that depended on CentOS for years, <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/AlmaLinux\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">AlmaLinux<\/a> feels familiar while providing a more reliable future.<\/p>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"1732\" data-end=\"1783\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Better_Security_and_Modern_System_Components\"><\/span>3. Better Security and Modern System Components<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"1785\" data-end=\"2014\">AlmaLinux 9 ships with a newer kernel, updated system libraries, and modern cryptographic standards. This improves overall system security and enables better performance, especially on newer hardware and virtualized environments.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"2016\" data-end=\"2058\">You also gain access to newer versions of:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li data-start=\"2061\" data-end=\"2098\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/install-openssl-on-ubuntu\/\">OpenSSL<\/a> and system crypto libraries<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"2101\" data-end=\"2136\">Systemd and networking components<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"2139\" data-end=\"2175\">Container and virtualization tools<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p data-start=\"2177\" data-end=\"2290\">These upgrades help protect your infrastructure against modern attack vectors while improving system reliability.<\/p>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"2292\" data-end=\"2334\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Future-Proofing_Your_Infrastructure\"><\/span>4. Future-Proofing Your Infrastructure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"2336\" data-end=\"2634\">Migrating to AlmaLinux 9 ensures your entire software stack remains supported and compatible. Databases, web servers, control panels, and automation tools increasingly drop support for older operating systems. Staying on CentOS 7 will eventually block upgrades and force emergency migrations later.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"2636\" data-end=\"2658\">By migrating now, you:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li data-start=\"2661\" data-end=\"2709\">Avoid rushed, high-risk upgrades in the future<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"2712\" data-end=\"2757\">Maintain compatibility with modern software<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"2760\" data-end=\"2804\">Keep vendor and third-party support intact<\/li>\r\n<li data-start=\"2807\" data-end=\"2854\">Create a stable platform for long-term growth<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"2856\" data-end=\"2890\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_A_Smarter_Move_Than_Waiting\"><\/span>5. A Smarter Move Than Waiting<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"2892\" data-end=\"3174\">Many organizations delay migrations because systems appear to be \u201cworking fine.\u201d The reality is that unsupported systems degrade quietly until something breaks or worse, gets compromised. Proactively moving to AlmaLinux 9 gives you time to test, plan, and migrate on your own terms.<\/p>\r\n<p data-start=\"3176\" data-end=\"3396\">In short, migrating from isn\u2019t just about replacing an operating system. It\u2019s about securing your environment, maintaining stability, and ensuring your infrastructure is ready for the years ahead.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Preparing_for_Migration_Dont_Skip_This_Step\"><\/span>Preparing for Migration: Don\u2019t Skip This Step<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>This is where most failed migrations happen in the rush. A few hours of prep now can save you days of troubleshooting later.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Take_Full_Backups\"><\/span>1. Take Full Backups<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Back up <strong>everything<\/strong> \u2014 system configuration, databases, and critical app data.<br \/>Use:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>rsync -aAXv \/ \/mnt\/backup\/\r\nmysqldump -u root -p --all-databases &gt; \/mnt\/backup\/all_dbs.sql\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Or rely on your provider\u2019s snapshot feature (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/\">MainVPS<\/a> offers instant snapshots on all VPS and dedicated plans).<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Check_Hardware_Software_Compatibility\"><\/span>2. Check Hardware &amp; Software Compatibility<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>AlmaLinux 9 uses a <strong>newer kernel (5.14)<\/strong> and newer libraries. Ensure:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li>Your control panels (<a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/vps-hosting-with-cpanel\/\">cPanel<\/a>, Plesk, DirectAdmin) support Alma 9<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>Your apps don\u2019t depend on older glibc or Python 2.x<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>You have at least <strong>2 GB of RAM<\/strong> and <strong>20 GB of disk space<\/strong> for the upgrade process<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Update_CentOS_7_Fully\"><\/span>3. Update CentOS 7 Fully<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Make sure your CentOS 7 system is fully up to date:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo yum update -y\r\nsudo reboot\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step-by-Step_Migrating_CentOS_7_%E2%86%92_AlmaLinux_9\"><\/span>Step-by-Step: Migrating CentOS 7 \u2192 AlmaLinux 9<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>The official AlmaLinux team provides a migration tool called <strong>ELevate<\/strong>. It handles major-version transitions \u2014 not just upgrades within CentOS but across the RHEL family (CentOS 7 \u2192 AlmaLinux 8 \u2192 9).<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Here\u2019s how to use it safely.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Install_ELevate_Tool\"><\/span>Step 1: Install ELevate Tool<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Enable EPEL repo first:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo yum install -y epel-release\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Add the ELevate repository and tool:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo yum install -y https:\/\/repo.almalinux.org\/elevate\/elevate-release-latest-7.noarch.rpm\r\nsudo yum install -y leapp leapp-data-almalinux\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Run_a_Pre-Upgrade_Check\"><\/span>Step 2: Run a Pre-Upgrade Check<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Before you actually upgrade, audit your system for blockers:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo leapp preupgrade\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>This generates <code>\/var\/log\/leapp\/leapp-report.txt<\/code> \u2014 a detailed report of issues like:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li>Unsupported kernels<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>Removed packages<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>Custom SELinux policies<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Read it carefully. The tool even lists suggested fixes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Resolve_Issues\"><\/span>Step 3: Resolve Issues<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Common quick fixes:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li>Remove old Python 2 modules or legacy PHP versions.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>Disable unsupported repos: <code>sudo yum-config-manager --disable repository-name<\/code><\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>Uninstall EOL packages: <code>sudo yum remove package-name<\/code><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Once everything looks clean, proceed.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Run_the_Upgrade_to_AlmaLinux_8\"><\/span>Step 4: Run the Upgrade to AlmaLinux 8<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo leapp upgrade\r\nsudo reboot\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>The system reboots into an AlmaLinux 8 environment.<br \/>Check:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>cat \/etc\/os-release\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>You should see <code>AlmaLinux 8.x<\/code>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Upgrade_AlmaLinux_8_%E2%86%92_AlmaLinux_9\"><\/span>Step 5: Upgrade AlmaLinux 8 \u2192 AlmaLinux 9<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Now that you\u2019re on 8, the jump to 9 is straightforward.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo dnf install -y dnf-plugin-system-upgrade\r\nsudo dnf system-upgrade download --releasever=9 -y\r\nsudo dnf system-upgrade reboot\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>After reboot, verify:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>cat \/etc\/redhat-release\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Output should read:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>AlmaLinux release 9.x (Emerald Puma)\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Congratulations\u2014your system is officially running AlmaLinux 9!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Post-Migration_Tune_and_Verify\"><\/span>Post-Migration: Tune and Verify<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Check_System_Health\"><\/span>Check System Health<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Run:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo dnf update -y\r\nsudo dnf autoremove -y\r\nsudo reboot\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Re-enable_SELinux_if_you_disabled_it\"><\/span>Re-enable SELinux (if you disabled it)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo setenforce 1\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Verify_Core_Services\"><\/span>Verify Core Services<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Check web, database, and mail services:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>systemctl status nginx\r\nsystemctl status mariadb\r\nsystemctl status postfix\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>If you\u2019re using control panels, ensure they detect Alma 9 correctly.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hardening_AlmaLinux_9_for_Production\"><\/span>Hardening AlmaLinux 9 for Production<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Now that you\u2019re live on AlmaLinux 9, lock it down.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Firewall_Security\"><\/span>Firewall &amp; Security<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo dnf install firewalld -y\r\nsudo systemctl enable firewalld --now\r\nsudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=http\r\nsudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=https\r\nsudo firewall-cmd --reload\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Intrusion_Protection\"><\/span>Intrusion Protection<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Install <strong>Fail2Ban<\/strong> and enable automatic banning of brute-force attempts:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo dnf install fail2ban -y\r\nsudo systemctl enable fail2ban --now\r\n<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Automatic_Updates\"><\/span>Automatic Updates<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>sudo dnf install dnf-automatic -y\r\nsudo systemctl enable --now dnf-automatic.timer<\/code><\/pre>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Performance_Tweaks_Worth_Doing\"><\/span>Performance Tweaks Worth Doing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li>Enable <strong>HTTP\/2 and Gzip<\/strong> in Nginx or Apache.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>Tune MariaDB using <code>mysqltuner.pl<\/code>.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>Enable swap if your VPS has under 2 GB RAM.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li>Use a <strong>local <a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/10-affordable-windows-vps-providers\/\">VPS provider<\/a><\/strong> like <a>MainVPS India<\/a> for lower latency and faster package downloads.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lessons_from_Real_Migrations\"><\/span>Lessons from Real Migrations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>I\u2019ve helped several businesses move production workloads from CentOS 7 to Alma 9.<br \/>Here\u2019s what experience teaches you:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\r\n<li><strong>Read the pre-upgrade report<\/strong>\u2014don\u2019t ignore even minor warnings.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Remove cPanel before migration<\/strong> and reinstall it after; the same for Plesk.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Test in staging<\/strong> first if your server runs critical apps.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Have console access ready.<\/strong> If SSH fails after reboot, you can still fix boot issues via console.<\/li>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<li><strong>Clean up legacy services<\/strong> (like old PHP-FPM 5.x) that might not exist in Alma 9.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<h2 data-start=\"125\" data-end=\"142\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><\/span>Final Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>Upgrading from CentOS 7 to AlmaLinux 9 is more than just a simple operating system upgrade; it\u2019s a long-term commitment to ensuring the continued stability, security, and supportability of your environment for years to come. With CentOS 7 no longer receiving updates, continuing to run on this version only adds risk and technical debt with the passage of time.<\/p>\r\n<p>With the help of the ELevate tool and proper planning, you can now approach this upgrade in a controlled and predictable manner. When done properly, you can now ensure that existing configurations are maintained, downtime is avoided, and your production environment is migrated to the new version without any unexpected downtime.<\/p>\r\n<p>If your servers are still running CentOS 7, this is the perfect time to take action. The first step is to perform complete backups and then test the upgrade process on a staging environment before proceeding.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" data-start=\"166\" data-end=\"202\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"204\" data-end=\"268\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Is_AlmaLinux_9_a_direct_drop-in_replacement_for_CentOS_7\"><\/span>1. Is AlmaLinux 9 a direct drop-in replacement for CentOS 7?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"269\" data-end=\"590\">Not exactly. AlmaLinux 9 uses a newer kernel, updated system libraries, and the modern <code data-start=\"356\" data-end=\"361\">dnf<\/code> package manager instead of <code data-start=\"389\" data-end=\"394\">yum<\/code>. However, application compatibility remains very high, especially for standard web, database, and enterprise workloads. Most applications that ran on CentOS 7 can be adapted with minimal changes.<\/p>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"592\" data-end=\"653\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_How_long_will_AlmaLinux_9_receive_updates_and_support\"><\/span>2. How long will AlmaLinux 9 receive updates and support?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"654\" data-end=\"886\">AlmaLinux 9 is supported until <strong data-start=\"685\" data-end=\"693\">2032<\/strong>, including security patches and critical updates. This provides a long and predictable support lifecycle, making it suitable for production environments that require stability over many years.<\/p>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"888\" data-end=\"947\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Can_I_upgrade_directly_from_CentOS_7_to_AlmaLinux_9\"><\/span>3. Can I upgrade directly from CentOS 7 to AlmaLinux 9?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"948\" data-end=\"1200\">The supported upgrade path is <strong data-start=\"978\" data-end=\"1018\">CentOS 7 \u2192 AlmaLinux 8 \u2192 AlmaLinux 9<\/strong>. While this may sound complex, both upgrades can be performed in a single, well-planned maintenance window using the ELevate tool. Skipping intermediate versions is not recommended.<\/p>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Will_my_existing_applications_be_compatible_with_the_new_environment\"><\/span>4. Will my existing applications be compatible with the new environment?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>In most instances, yes. However, applications that depend on deprecated components such as Python 2, older PHP versions, or older system libraries may need to be updated or replaced. It is highly recommended that you test your applications in a pre-migration staging environment.<\/p>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Can_I_retain_my_existing_cPanel_or_Plesk_environment\"><\/span>5. Can I retain my existing cPanel or Plesk environment?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>In most instances, control panels must be reinstalled on AlmaLinux 9 in order to achieve optimal compatibility. Prior to migration, it is highly recommended that you create a backup of all configurations, data, and licenses.<\/p>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_What_is_the_safest_rollback_option_in_case_the_migration_fails\"><\/span>6. What is the safest rollback option in case the migration fails?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>The safest rollback option is to restore from a full server snapshot or system backup. Creating a snapshot of the server before using the Elevate tool enables an immediate rollback in case of any issues. Rollback planning is always a consideration in your migration planning.<\/p>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_How_much_downtime_can_I_expect_during_the_migration_process\"><\/span>7. How much downtime can I expect during the migration process?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>The amount of downtime required during migration depends on the size of the server, the packages installed, and the services. With careful planning and testing, many migrations can be accomplished in a matter of hours. Performing maintenance during low-traffic times helps keep the impact on users to a minimum.<\/p>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Do_I_have_to_change_my_hosting_company_to_install_AlmaLinux_9\"><\/span>8. Do I have to change my hosting company to install AlmaLinux 9?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>Not necessarily, but your hosting company has to support AlmaLinux 9 and have hardware and virtualization compatible with AlmaLinux 9. A hosting company that provides fast storage, up-to-date<a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/check-cpu-info-on-linux\/\"> CPUs<\/a>, and root access will make the transition and management process much easier.<\/p>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Can_I_use_AlmaLinux_9_for_production_purposes\"><\/span>9. Can I use AlmaLinux 9 for production purposes?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>Yes. AlmaLinux 9 is an enterprise distribution, providing compatibility with RHEL, long-term support, robust security settings, and predictable updates. AlmaLinux 9 is commonly used for hosting, databases, application servers, and virtualization software.<\/p>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"3124\" data-end=\"3177\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Where_should_I_host_a_new_AlmaLinux_9_server\"><\/span>10. Where should I host a new AlmaLinux 9 server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p data-start=\"3178\" data-end=\"3452\">Choose a reliable provider with low latency, modern infrastructure, and strong support. For businesses targeting Indian users, a <a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/low-cost-windows-vps-hosting-in-india\/\">VPS<\/a> or<a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/cheap-dedicated-server-hosting-providers\/\"> dedicated server hosted<\/a> in India can offer better performance and lower latency, along with full root control for advanced configurations.<\/p>\r\n<h3 data-start=\"3178\" data-end=\"3452\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Suggestions\"><\/span>Suggestions:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/vps-hosting-with-cpanel\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/vps-hosting-with-cpanel\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/low-cost-windows-vps-hosting-in-india\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/low-cost-windows-vps-hosting-in-india\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/linux-vps-hosting-india\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/linux-vps-hosting-india\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/mainvps-vs-bigrock-vps-hosting\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/mainvps-vs-bigrock-vps-hosting\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/best-dedicated-hosting-service-in-india\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/best-dedicated-hosting-service-in-india\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/linux-reseller-hosting\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/linux-reseller-hosting\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/lifetime-web-hosting-2026\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/lifetime-web-hosting-2026\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/windows-reseller-web-hosting\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/windows-reseller-web-hosting\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/best-wordpress-hosting-providers\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/best-wordpress-hosting-providers\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/cheap-dedicated-server-hosting-providers\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/cheap-dedicated-server-hosting-providers\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/windows-server-guide-dde-dns-tls-1-2-uptime\/\">https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/windows-server-guide-dde-dns-tls-1-2-uptime\/<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>With the official end of life of CentOS 7 in June 2024, thousands of production servers were suddenly left without security patches, bug fixes, or vendor <a class=\"read-more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/migrate-centos-7-to-almalinux-9-production-guide\/\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":12014,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12004","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-web-hosting"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12004","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12004"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12004\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12367,"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12004\/revisions\/12367"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12014"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12004"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12004"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mainvps.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12004"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}