
ClearOS
ClearOS is a robust Linux distribution serving as a comprehensive server solution for small to medium-sized businesses. It provides a unified platform for networking, gateway, and server functions with a user-friendly web-based interface. Developed by ClearCenter Webmaster
About ClearOS
ClearOS, built upon the solid foundations of CentOS and Red Hat Enterprise Linux, offers a versatile and powerful operating system tailored for server environments, particularly for SMBs. Its design prioritizes ease of use alongside comprehensive functionality.
Key capabilities include:
- Networking: Functions as a sophisticated gateway with features like DHCP, DNS management, and firewall capabilities to secure and manage network traffic.
- Messaging & Collaboration: Provides a fully integrated mail server with built-in anti-spam and anti-virus protection, along with file sharing capabilities.
- Security: Features intrusion detection/prevention systems and a Web Application Firewall to protect against various threats.
- Management: Offers a centralized, web-based interface for configuration and monitoring, simplifying system administration.
- Flexibility: Supports various server roles and integrations, including Active Directory authentication, VPN capabilities, and even containerization with Docker support.
ClearOS aims to simplify IT management for businesses by consolidating multiple server roles into a single, easy-to-manage platform.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- All-in-one server solution
- User-friendly web interface
- Strong security features
- Based on stable Linux distribution
- Supports key business services
Cons
- May have a learning curve for new users
- Community Edition features may differ from paid versions
- Performance can be hardware dependent
What Makes ClearOS Stand Out
Unified Server Solution
Combines multiple critical server roles (gateway, email, web, file sharing) into a single platform.
User-Friendly Web Interface
Simplifies server administration through an intuitive and accessible web browser interface.
Comprehensive Security Features
Includes integrated firewall, intrusion detection/prevention, and virus scanning.
Flexible Deployment Options
Suitable for various environments and supports features like VPNs and Docker.
What can ClearOS do?
Review
ClearOS presents itself as a compelling server operating system for small to medium-sized businesses seeking an integrated and manageable IT infrastructure. Based on the robust and stable CentOS/RHEL lineage, ClearOS provides a solid foundation for critical network and server functions.
One of the most significant strengths of ClearOS is its consolidation of various server roles into a single, unified platform. Instead of requiring separate servers or complex configurations for functions like gateway, email, web serving, and file sharing, ClearOS bundles these together. This integration is particularly beneficial for organizations with limited IT staff or budget, as it simplifies deployment and ongoing management.
The web-based management interface is central to the ClearOS user experience. It provides a graphical environment for configuring and monitoring the system, making it accessible to administrators who may not be deeply familiar with command-line interfaces. This interface is generally well-organized and provides clear pathways for accessing the various features and services.
Security is a key area where ClearOS demonstrates its value. The inclusion of a firewall, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and an integrated virus scanner provides a strong baseline for protecting the network and its data. The Web Application Firewall adds another layer of defense for hosted web services, which is increasingly important in today's threat landscape.
Networking capabilities are comprehensive, covering essential services like DHCP and DNS, along with more advanced features like VLAN support and OpenVPN compatibility for secure remote access. These features allow businesses to establish and manage their network infrastructure effectively.
While ClearOS excels in providing integrated services and ease of management, potential users should consider their specific needs and compare the feature set against other server platforms. The performance and scalability will depend on the underlying hardware infrastructure.
In summary, ClearOS offers a powerful and user-friendly Linux-based server solution, particularly well-suited for SMBs. Its integrated approach, comprehensive security features, and accessible web interface make it a strong contender for organizations looking to streamline their IT operations.
Similar Software

Amahi Home Server is a free and open-source home server software that's based on Fedora Linux.

Sophos UTM Appliances with Firewall Sandboxing Provides Maximum Network Protection at an Affordable Price.

Cloudron is a platform to host apps on your server and keep them up-to-date and secure.

DD-WRT is free Linux-based firmware for several wireless routers, most notably the Linksys WRT54G.

Endian Firewall Community is an Open Source Firewall and UTM Appliance with offers unique usability and features.

NethServer is an operating system for Linux enthusiasts, designed for small offices and medium enterprises.

OpenMediaVault (OMV) is a free Linux distribution designed for network-attached storage (NAS).

pfSense is an open source firewall/router computer software distribution based on FreeBSD.

Smoothwall is an Open Source free firewall that includes its own security-hardened GNU/Linux operating system and an easy-to-use web interface.

Univention Corporate Server lets you manage server applications and IT infrastructures.

Untangle wins a network security solution.

Windows Server 2012, codenamed "Windows Server 8" is the sixth release of Windows Server.
Help others by voting if you like this software.
Compare with Similar Apps
Select any similar app below to compare it with ClearOS side by side.
Compare features, pricing, and reviews between these alternatives.
Compare features, pricing, and reviews between these alternatives.
Compare features, pricing, and reviews between these alternatives.
Compare features, pricing, and reviews between these alternatives.
Compare features, pricing, and reviews between these alternatives.