CentOS (Community Enterprise Operating System) is a free and open-source Linux distribution that is widely used in server environments. Here is a brief history of CentOS:

1. Origin: CentOS originated from the source code of the commercial Linux distribution, Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). In 2003, the CentOS project was started by a group of developers who aimed to provide a community-driven and freely available alternative to RHEL.
2. Compatibility and Goals: CentOS’s primary goal was to be 100% binary compatible with RHEL. This meant that CentOS could use the same software packages and configurations as RHEL, allowing users to transition seamlessly between the two distributions. CentOS focused on stability, security, and long-term support, making it a popular choice for server environments.
3. Versioning and Updates: CentOS initially followed the version numbering of RHEL. For example, CentOS 3.x corresponded to RHEL 3.x. Updates and security patches were released by the CentOS project to keep the distribution in sync with the respective RHEL versions. This ensured that CentOS users had access to the latest fixes and features.
4. Relationship with Red Hat: CentOS had a close relationship with Red Hat. While it operated as an independent project, it relied on the availability of RHEL source code and mirrored the packages and updates provided by Red Hat. The CentOS project collaborated with Red Hat and worked to maintain compatibility.
5. CentOS 7 to CentOS 8 Transition: In 2019, the CentOS project announced a significant change in its release strategy. CentOS 8 would be the last version based directly on RHEL, and future versions would be derived from CentOS Stream, an upstream development branch of RHEL. This decision meant CentOS 8’s support lifespan was shortened from 10 years to 4 years, causing concerns among users and the community.
6. Introduction of CentOS Stream: CentOS Stream was introduced as a rolling-release distribution in 2020. It provides a middle ground between the cutting-edge developments of Fedora and the more stable releases of RHEL. CentOS Stream aims to provide early access to RHEL features, allowing developers and users to contribute to the development process.
7. CentOS Stream and CentOS Linux: In December 2020, it was announced that CentOS Linux 8 would be discontinued early, effectively ending the traditional CentOS Linux project. CentOS Stream would become the primary focus for the future development of CentOS, with CentOS Stream 8 serving as the upstream source for future RHEL releases.

The history of CentOS is characterized by its close relationship with Red Hat, its commitment to providing a freely available alternative to RHEL, and its reputation as a stable and secure server distribution. The shift towards CentOS Stream represents a significant change in its development model, providing users with a more forward-looking and collaborative approach.