Choose your Linux distribution: Debian, Ubuntu, Rocky Linux or AlmaLinux
With no particular constraint, pick Debian or Ubuntu in their latest version.
The quick pick
No particular constraint? Pick Debian or Ubuntu: they are the most widespread, and most tutorials are written for them.
You choose the distribution and its version when you order. The system is then installed automatically.
Which distribution for which use
Debian: plain and very stable, with few surprises. It is managed with apt. A good choice for a server you set up and then forget.
Ubuntu: based on Debian, with the same apt commands. It has the most documentation online and often more recent software. The three versions we offer (20.04, 22.04 and 24.04) are LTS versions, with long support.
Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux: they are compatible with Red Hat Enterprise Linux and managed with dnf. Pick one if your software is made for Red Hat, or if you used to run CentOS. The two are equivalent for everyday use: take the one you know.
Which version to choose
Take the most recent one offered: Debian 13, Ubuntu 24.04, Rocky Linux 9 or AlmaLinux 9. A recent version receives security fixes for longer.
Change your mind later
You can switch system by reinstalling the VPS from your client area. A reinstall starts from scratch: back up your files first.
Once the VPS is installed, connect with SSH then secure it. The commands in that second guide also cover Rocky Linux and AlmaLinux.