RHEL 10 | Everything You Need to Know About Red Hat Enterprise Linux 10

Table of Contents

• What is RHEL?
• A Brief History of RHEL
• Release Date and Support Lifecycle
• Key New Features in RHEL 10
• Security Enhancements
• AI Integration with Lightspeed
• Image Mode: A New Way to Manage Your OS
• Major Changes and Deprecated Features
• Updated Software and Tools
• Hardware and Architecture Support
• How to Install RHEL 10
• Upgrading from RHEL 9 to RHEL 10
• Comparison: RHEL 9 vs. RHEL 10
• Common Use Cases for RHEL 10
• Conclusion
• FAQs

What is RHEL?

Red Hat Enterprise Linux, commonly known as RHEL, is a commercial operating system based on Linux. It's designed for businesses and organizations that need a stable, secure, and reliable platform for their servers, workstations, or cloud environments. Unlike free Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Fedora, RHEL comes with paid support from Red Hat, which includes updates, security patches, and expert help when things go wrong.

At its core, RHEL is open-source, meaning anyone can look at its code, but Red Hat adds value by testing it rigorously and providing long-term support. This makes it popular in enterprises where downtime can cost a fortune. If you're new to Linux, think of RHEL as the professional version – it's like the suit-and-tie edition of the casual Linux world.

RHEL powers everything from web servers to supercomputers. It's known for its predictability; once you install it, you can count on it running smoothly for years with regular updates.

A Brief History of RHEL

RHEL has been around for over two decades, evolving with the needs of the tech industry. It all started back in 2002 with the release of Red Hat Linux Advanced Server, which later became RHEL 3. Red Hat shifted focus to enterprise users, leaving the community edition to Fedora.

Over the years, each major version brought improvements:

• RHEL 5 in 2007 introduced better virtualization support.
• RHEL 6 in 2010 focused on performance and scalability.
• RHEL 7 in 2014 brought systemd, a new way to manage system services.
• RHEL 8 in 2019 emphasized containers and modular software.
• RHEL 9 in 2022 enhanced security and hybrid cloud capabilities.

Now, RHEL 10 builds on this legacy, incorporating AI and quantum-ready features to prepare for the future. It's a testament to how Linux has grown from a hobbyist's tool to a cornerstone of modern computing.

Release Date and Support Lifecycle

RHEL 10 was officially released on May 20, 2025, after a beta period that started in November 2024. This release follows Red Hat's three-year cycle for major versions, giving users plenty of time to plan upgrades.

The support lifecycle is one of RHEL's biggest selling points. For RHEL 10, you get:

• Full support until May 2030, including new features and enhancements.
• Maintenance support until May 2035, focusing on security and bug fixes.
• Optional extended life cycle support beyond that for critical systems.

This long support means you don't have to upgrade every year, reducing risks and costs. If you're running older versions, note that RHEL 7 support ends in 2024, so migrating to newer ones like RHEL 10 is wise.

Key New Features in RHEL 10

RHEL 10 packs a punch with innovations that cater to modern IT challenges. Here's a rundown of the standout features:

• AI-Powered Management: Introducing Red Hat Enterprise Linux Lightspeed, an AI tool that helps with everyday tasks using natural language.
• Image Mode: A new immutable OS approach that treats your system like a container, making deployments consistent and secure.
• Post-Quantum Cryptography: Built-in protection against future quantum computing threats.
• Enhanced Cloud Support: Fully optimized images for AWS, Google Cloud, Azure, and now Oracle Cloud Infrastructure.
• Updated Kernel and Tools: Based on Linux kernel 6.12, with newer versions of GCC, Python, and more.

These features make RHEL 10 not just an update, but a forward-looking platform ready for AI, cloud, and edge computing.

Security Enhancements

Security is a top priority in RHEL 10, with several upgrades to keep your data safe. One big addition is support for post-quantum cryptography, which uses algorithms resistant to attacks from quantum computers. This is crucial as quantum tech advances, potentially breaking current encryption methods.

RHEL 10 achieves FIPS compliance for these new crypto standards, meaning it meets government requirements for secure systems. Other enhancements include:

• Updated OpenSSL for better TLS support and PKCS #12 files.
• OpenSSH 9.8 with fixes and improvements.
• SELinux updates, including Wayland support and new audit tools.
• A new sudo system role for managing privileges across multiple machines.
• Default admin privileges for new users, which you can disable if needed.

There's also the Security Select Add-On, launching in Q3 2025, allowing you to pick specific CVE fixes for extra protection in regulated industries like finance or healthcare.

AI Integration with Lightspeed

One of the most exciting parts of RHEL 10 is Red Hat Enterprise Linux Lightspeed. This generative AI tool is embedded right into the command line, making admin tasks simpler. Imagine asking your system in plain English, "How do I set up a backup script?" and getting step-by-step guidance.

Lightspeed provides context-aware suggestions, helps troubleshoot issues, and even generates personalized release notes. It's especially helpful for beginners or teams short on Linux experts. According to studies, finding skilled Linux admins is tough, so this AI bridges that gap, reducing errors and downtime.

It's not just hype – it's practical AI that integrates seamlessly, making RHEL more accessible without sacrificing power.

Image Mode: A New Way to Manage Your OS

Image mode is a game-changer in RHEL 10. It makes the operating system "immutable," meaning core files are read-only during runtime. To make changes, you build a new image and reboot, similar to how containers work.

This approach minimizes configuration drift – that annoying issue where systems diverge over time. Benefits include:

• Easier deployments across cloud and on-prem environments.
• Better security through consistency and easier scanning.
• Support for GitOps workflows, where changes are version-controlled.

Red Hat Insights now offers tools to recommend packages and plan transitions to image mode, making it straightforward to adopt.

Major Changes and Deprecated Features

With every new version come changes, and RHEL 10 has some significant ones. Notably, X11 (the old display system) is removed in favor of Wayland, which is more secure and modern. SysV init scripts are gone, pushing everyone to systemd.

Cgroup v1 is deprecated, meaning you'll need to move to v2 for resource management. Other deprecations include:

• i440fx machine types for virtual machines.
• Certain Flatpak images like Inkscape and LibreOffice.
• Enumeration features in Active Directory and Identity Management.
• Support for older CPUs below x86_64-v3 baseline.
• Firefox web browser not included by default in beta, though available via repositories.

These changes streamline RHEL, but plan ahead if you're relying on deprecated items.

Updated Software and Tools

RHEL 10 refreshes its software stack for better performance and compatibility. The kernel is now 6.12.0, a big jump from RHEL 9's 5.14, bringing improved hardware support and efficiency.

Developer tools shine with:

• GCC 14.2 for compiling code.
• GNU C Library (glibc) 2.39.
• Python 3.12, Perl 5.40.
• Updated Podman 5.0 for containers.
• New versions of Java, Rust, and Go.

These updates ensure developers can build modern apps without compatibility headaches.

Hardware and Architecture Support

RHEL 10 supports a wide range of hardware, including x86-64, 64-bit ARM, IBM POWER, and IBM Z. There's even a developer preview for RISC-V, an up-and-coming architecture that's open and flexible.

This broad support means RHEL 10 can run on everything from laptops to mainframes. For cloud users, pre-tuned images for major providers make setup a breeze.

How to Install RHEL 10

Installing RHEL 10 is straightforward. First, download the ISO from the Red Hat Customer Portal if you have a subscription, or try the 60-day evaluation.

Steps:

• Burn the ISO to a USB or DVD.
• Boot from it and select "Install Red Hat Enterprise Linux."
• Choose your language, set up storage, and configure network.
• Create a user and set a root password.
• Reboot and register your system for updates.

The installer has improved highlights, like better partitioning options. If you're new, the graphical interface guides you gently.

Upgrading from RHEL 9 to RHEL 10

Upgrading is supported directly from RHEL 9. Use the Leapp tool for in-place upgrades:

• Update your RHEL 9 system fully.
• Install Leapp and run pre-upgrade checks.
• Follow the report to fix any issues.
• Run the upgrade and reboot.

Always back up data first. For large setups, test in a staging environment.

Comparison: RHEL 9 vs. RHEL 10

To see how RHEL 10 stacks up, here's a comparison table:

This table shows RHEL 10's advancements in future-proofing and usability.

Common Use Cases for RHEL 10

RHEL 10 shines in various scenarios:

• Enterprise Servers: Running databases, web apps with high reliability.
• Cloud and Hybrid Environments: Seamless integration with major clouds.
• AI and Machine Learning: Lightspeed aids in managing complex setups.
• Edge Computing: Immutable images for remote devices.
• Development: Updated tools for building modern software.

It's ideal for industries needing compliance, like government or finance.

Conclusion

In summary, RHEL 10 is a robust update that blends stability with innovation. From AI assistance to quantum-ready security, it equips you for today's and tomorrow's challenges. Whether upgrading or starting fresh, RHEL 10 offers tools to make your IT life easier. If you're curious, try the evaluation and see for yourself. Thanks for reading – stay tuned for more tech insights!

FAQs

What is the release date of RHEL 10?

RHEL 10 was officially released on May 20, 2025, following a beta phase that began in November 2024.

Is RHEL 10 free to use?

RHEL 10 requires a subscription for full access and support, but you can try a 60-day evaluation edition for free from Red Hat's website.

What kernel does RHEL 10 use?

RHEL 10 is based on the Linux kernel version 6.12.0, which brings improved performance and hardware support.

What is Red Hat Enterprise Linux Lightspeed?

Lightspeed is an AI tool in RHEL 10 that provides natural language guidance for admin tasks, helping with troubleshooting and commands.

Does RHEL 10 support post-quantum cryptography?

Yes, RHEL 10 includes FIPS-compliant post-quantum cryptography to protect against future quantum threats.

What is image mode in RHEL 10?

Image mode treats the OS as an immutable image, like a container, for consistent deployments and reduced configuration drift.

Can I upgrade directly from RHEL 9 to RHEL 10?

Yes, in-place upgrades are supported using the Leapp tool, but always back up your data first.

What architectures does RHEL 10 support?

RHEL 10 supports x86-64, 64-bit ARM, IBM POWER, IBM Z, and has a developer preview for RISC-V.

Is X11 still available in RHEL 10?

No, X11 has been removed in favor of Wayland, which is more secure and efficient.

What is deprecated in RHEL 10?

Deprecated features include cgroup v1, SysV init, i440fx VM types, and support for older CPUs.

Does RHEL 10 include Firefox by default?

In the beta, Firefox was not included by default, but it's available through repositories for installation.

What cloud platforms are optimized for RHEL 10?

RHEL 10 has pre-tuned images for AWS, Google Cloud, Azure, and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure.

How long is the support lifecycle for RHEL 10?

Full support until May 2030, followed by maintenance until May 2035, with optional extended support.

Is RHEL 10 suitable for beginners?

Yes, with tools like Lightspeed, it's more beginner-friendly, though some Linux knowledge helps.

What Python version comes with RHEL 10?

RHEL 10 includes Python 3.12 as the default version.

Can RHEL 10 run containers?

Absolutely, with updated Podman 5.0 for managing containers efficiently.

What security add-ons are available for RHEL 10?

The Security Select Add-On allows choosing specific CVE fixes, available from Q3 2025.

Does RHEL 10 support virtualization?

Yes, with enhancements in KVM and deprecations like i440fx for better VM management.

How do I get RHEL 10?

Existing subscribers can download from the Red Hat Customer Portal; others can sign up for an evaluation.

What makes RHEL 10 quantum-ready?

Its incorporation of NIST post-quantum cryptography standards prepares it for quantum computing threats.