KernelCare Enterprise
KernelCare Enterprise: A focused choice for automatic Linux kernel security patching without server reboots. Ranked #20 of 48 in Patch Management Software by our editors (7.0/10); pricing: Pricing on request · 30-day trial; best for linux teams needing rebootless kernel security patches.
At a glance
- Editor score7.0 / 10
- PricingPricing on request · 30-day trial
- Best forLinux teams needing rebootless kernel security patches
- Free planNo
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Applies Linux kernel security patches without reboots
- Supports 70+ distribution versions and x86-64 and ARM64
- Offers staged rollouts, air-gapped deployment, and security integrations
Where it doesn't
- Designed for Linux rather than cross-platform endpoint coverage
- Does not provide third-party application patching
- Pricing is quote-based rather than publicly listed
Our verdict on KernelCare Enterprise
KernelCare Enterprise is TuxCare’s live patching service for organizations that need to apply security updates to supported Linux kernels without rebooting servers. It suits Linux infrastructure teams managing enterprise distributions such as RHEL, Oracle Linux, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, CentOS, Ubuntu, Debian, CloudLinux, Amazon Linux, and Proxmox VE. An agent checks for, downloads, verifies, and applies patches, while ePortal adds centralized rollout controls and deployment options for restricted or air-gapped networks.
The published Starter plan includes rebootless kernel patching, up to 100% CVE coverage, unlimited kernel patching for the lifetime of the plan, support for 70+ distribution versions, and coverage for up to 199 systems. A 30-day trial is available, while the paid service uses contact-sales pricing. Optional LibCare extends live patching to critical userspace components, but the core product remains focused on Linux kernel maintenance rather than broad third-party application patching.
KernelCare Enterprise fits environments where avoiding server reboots is important and where administrators need controlled deployment across varied Linux estates. It supports scheduled deployment, x86-64 and ARM64 architectures, FIPS-validated kernel live patching, and integrations with Ansible, Puppet, Chef, and Salt. Qualys, Rapid7, and Tenable integrations can provide patch visibility for vulnerability scanners through OVAL data. Teams seeking Windows coverage, general endpoint patch management, or third-party application updates should choose a broader alternative; Linux-focused organizations with offline or restricted-network requirements are the natural fit.
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KernelCare Enterprise pricing
All 3 KernelCare Enterprise plans and prices →
KernelCare Enterprise fact sheet
| Free plan | No |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | Amazon Linux, AlmaLinux, CentOS, CloudLinux, Debian, Oracle Linux, Proxmox VE, RHEL, Rocky Linux, Ubuntu, Virtuozzo and other supported Linux distributions |
| Third-party patching | Not verified |
| Reboot controls | None |
| Scheduled deployment | Yes |
| Device limit | 199 |
| Offline device support | Yes |
| Free trial | 30 days |
| Deployment | Cloud, Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux, Web |
| Compliance & security | PCI DSS, ISO 27001 |
| Support | Tickets, Docs · 24/7 |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 4 integrations: Ansible, Puppet, Chef, Salt |
| Pricing | Pricing on request · 30-day trial (source) |
| Website | tuxcare.com |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
KernelCare Enterprise integrations
KernelCare Enterprise lists 4 integrations on its own site.
- Ansible
- Puppet
- Chef
- Salt
Alternatives to KernelCare Enterprise
- ManageEngine Patch Manager PlusA broad patching toolkit with free coverage and detailed deployment controls.9.4
- Action1Broad OS and third-party patch automation with a free first-200-endpoint plan.9.1
- AutomoxAffordable cloud patching with broader automation available on higher tiers.8.9
See all KernelCare Enterprise alternatives →
Also Ranked In
KernelCare Enterprise is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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