The Open Enterprise Linux Association (Openela), which was formed in August by CIQ (Rocky Linux), Oracle, and SUSE, has announced that it is ready to launch a new repository. This repository will contain packages that can be used as the foundation for creating distributions that are fully compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). These distributions will be identical, at the error level, to RHEL and can be used as a replacement for it. The initial texts of the prepared packages will be distributed for free and without any restrictions.
The new repository is the result of collaboration between the developers of Rocky Linux, Oracle Linux, and Suse Liberty Linux. It includes all the necessary packages for creating distributions compatible with RHEL 8 and 9. In the future, they plan to release packages for distributions compatible with RHEL 7. The project also aims to provide the tools necessary for creating derivatives of distributions that are fully compatible with RHEL.
The Openela repository has taken the place of the Git.Centos.org repository, which was terminated by Red Hat. The Centos Stream repository is the only public source of RHEL package code that remains after the termination of git.Centos.org. However, for Red Hat customers, it is possible to download SRPM packets through a closed section of the Red Hat website, subject to the user agreement (EULA). This agreement prohibits the redistribution of data and the use of these packages to create derivatives of distribution derivatives. The Centos Stream repository is not always in sync with RHEL packages and may have delays in publishing updates.
The Openela repository promises to follow high quality standards and maintain an open development process. They guarantee the timely publication of updates and vulnerability fixes. This project is open, independent, and neutral. Any interested organizations, companies, and individual developers are welcome to join and contribute to the repository.
To address legal and financial issues, as well as make technical decisions and coordinate development, a Technical Steering Committee (TSC) has been created. This committee will ensure the smooth operation of the association. The TSC currently includes: