Why Mixed-IT Environments Work: The Case for Multi-Linux Strategies

Sometimes you need multiple tools to get the job done. That’s why many companies end up with mixed IT environments with a variety of cloud providers, on-premises operating systems and Linux distributions. While the diversity can be a bit chaotic, we’re making the case that mixed-IT environments offer the best opportunities.

Increase Innovation With Flexibility 

One major reason companies use a mixed-IT environment is because the diversity offers flexibility and encourages innovation. For example, it’s common for DevOps workflows to use containers, such as Kubernetes, and cloud platforms in tandem with Linux hosts interacting with Windows or macOS machines. This varied IT environment allows developers to take advantage of the tools that work best for each task. Developers can leverage the unique features of each platform to innovate, find new ways to accomplish tasks faster and be creative in designing new features. A mixed-IT environment also offers flexibility for individual employee preferences. If two different employees are more comfortable on different platforms, they can be more innovative in their chosen space.

The flexibility of mixed-IT environments is also great for companies with legacy systems. Even if you have workloads on EOL operating systems like CentOS, a mixed-IT environment allows you to keep those systems, avoid disruptive migrations and still innovate while adding on modern applications and newer platforms.  

Scalability Without Licensing Limits

Scalability is an advantage of implementing a mixed-IT environment. As your business needs and workloads wax and wane, a mixed environment allows you to scale specific systems. Companies can invest in Linux-based servers for easily scalable, cost-optimized cloud deployments. 

Additionally, in hybrid and multi-Linux environments, companies can scale freely because they’re not limited by a single vendor. Vendor lock-in can trap companies in expensive contracts and roadmaps that don’t align with the company’s goals. However, in mixed-IT environments, companies can scale without paying for expensive licenses or expensive upgrades to handle bigger workloads. 

Prevent and Reduce Risks

You can reduce risks — and if a risk does occur, respond to it faster — with a multi-Linux strategy. Different systems have different vulnerabilities, making it harder for attackers to exploit the entire infrastructure. Think of your company’s security as a vault door with multiple locks. Each Linux distro and different system is a different lock. Even if one lock is hacked, the other locks are still functional and protecting data. 

If a security breach does happen, a mixed-IT environment offers redundancy to minimize damage. Diverse environments ensure that if one system or platform fails, others can remain operational. Companies can support business continuity and shift workloads to unaffected systems, which minimizes downtime and reduces risks to the rest of the business. This redundancy is a reliable way to lessen risks if they do happen.

Support Business Goals and Operations

Multi-Linux strategies can be a valuable tool to support your business goals. Different Linux distros can help meet different business needs. Organizations can implement free, open source Linux distros for some projects. For other projects, your organization may need commercial, enterprise Linux that includes support. The flexibility of having multiple Linux distros means you can meet each project’s business needs with scalability and resilience, tailoring each distro to the tools needed to accomplish that particular business goal. 

Multiple Linux servers can also each be tailored to support a different company business need. One distro can be for a tool that provides enterprise-level stability while another is used for lightweight containerized applications. Companies in heavily regulated environments, like healthcare, can use one Linux distro to process clinical data while another distro manages patient records. Using separate Linux distros allows the company to optimize each environment for its specific workload while staying compliant with regulations. 

No Lock-In, No Limits—Streamline Your Multi-Linux Strategy With SUSE

SUSE Multi-Linux Support is here to support your mixed-IT environment, spark innovation in your company and encourage scalability and security. 

With SUSE Multi-Linux Support, you have the freedom to pick the enterprise Linux version that best suits your needs, with the confidence that you’ll get the same level of support no matter what. We’ve been a trusted open source partner for more than 30 years, so you know that when you partner with us, you’re backed by a partner who prioritizes transparency, security and innovation, empowering your teams with trusted support and expertise.

To learn more about how to get even more out of your environment, read our white paper, “Strategies for a Seamless, Scalable Multi-Linux Infrastructure.”