Amazon Linux
Amazon Linux: A free, AWS-focused Linux distribution with controlled updates and EC2 and container images. Ranked #6 of 29 in Server Operating System by our editors (8.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for AWS-native EC2 and container workloads.
At a glance
- Editor score8.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forAWS-native EC2 and container workloads
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked23 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free to run, with EC2 AMIs and Docker-compatible container images
- Versioned repositories support deterministic package updates
- Systems Manager supports fleet kernel update management
Where it doesn't
- Its strongest fit is AWS, not heterogeneous infrastructure
- AWS Support Plans do not cover AL2023 images used outside AWS
- EC2 and other AWS services still incur charges
Our verdict on Amazon Linux
Amazon Linux 2023 (AL2023) is a general-purpose, RPM-based Linux distribution designed for workloads on AWS. It suits teams running Amazon EC2 instances or Docker container workloads, including local development, who want an operating system that fits AWS services and tools. AWS provides it without an additional operating-system charge; EC2 and other AWS services are charged separately.
Deployment and ecosystem fit are its clearest strengths. AWS distributes AL2023 as Amazon Machine Images for launching EC2 instances and as a Docker-compatible container image available from Amazon ECR Public. The image can also be used outside AWS, including locally. Integrations include Amazon EC2, Amazon ECS, Amazon ECR, AWS CLI and AWS Systems Manager. That makes it a natural choice for AWS-centered deployments, but less compelling where workloads need a broadly neutral operating-system choice across heterogeneous infrastructure.
For package control, AL2023 uses DNF and versioned repositories to support deterministic updates. Quarterly minor releases bring security updates, bug fixes and new features. AWS states that AL2023 is supported until June 30, 2029, with standard support through June 30, 2027, followed by maintenance support; individual LTS kernels are supported for four years. FIPS mode and validated cryptographic modules are also included. Systems Manager can manage fleet kernel updates. Choose AL2023 for AWS-native EC2 and container environments that value this release and management model. Organizations running its images outside AWS should account for the fact that AWS Support Plans do not cover them; teams prioritizing heterogeneous infrastructure may prefer a distribution suited to that broader environment.
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Amazon Linux pricing
Amazon Linux fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| License model | Not verified |
| Architecture support | Not verified |
| Management interface | Not verified |
| Long-term support | Not verified |
| Live kernel patching | Not verified |
| Container tooling | Not verified |
| Commercial support | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud, Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Support | Tickets, Community |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 5 integrations: AWS Systems Manager, AWS CLI, Amazon EC2, Amazon ECS, Amazon ECR |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | aws.amazon.com |
| Facts checked | 23 Sep 2026 |
Amazon Linux integrations
Amazon Linux lists 5 integrations on its own site.
- AWS Systems Manager
- AWS CLI
- Amazon EC2
- Amazon ECS
- Amazon ECR
Alternatives to Amazon Linux
- Ubuntu ServerFree, multi-architecture Linux with five years of LTS maintenance and optional Pro services.9.4
- DebianA stable, broadly compatible server OS with APT, security updates and cloud images.9.3
- AlmaLinux OSA free RHEL-compatible Linux distribution for servers, cloud, containers and more.9.2
See all Amazon Linux alternatives →
Amazon Linux vs the competition
- Amazon Linux vs Ubuntu Server
- Amazon Linux vs Debian
- Amazon Linux vs AlmaLinux OS
- Amazon Linux vs SUSE Linux Enterprise Server
- Amazon Linux vs Rocky Linux
- Amazon Linux vs CentOS Stream
Compare Amazon Linux with any tool side by side →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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