Upstart vs OpenRC

Developers should learn Upstart when working on Linux systems, particularly Ubuntu versions prior to 15 meets developers should learn openrc when working on lightweight or embedded linux systems, particularly in gentoo-based or alpine linux environments where it is the default init system. Here's our take.

Upstart

Nice Pick

Developers should learn Upstart when working on Linux systems, particularly Ubuntu versions prior to 15

Pros

• 04, as it was the default init system
• Related to: linux-systemd, sysvinit

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

OpenRC

Developers should learn OpenRC when working on lightweight or embedded Linux systems, particularly in Gentoo-based or Alpine Linux environments where it is the default init system

Pros

• It is useful for system administrators and DevOps engineers who need fine-grained control over service dependencies, want a simple and fast init system without systemd's complexity, or are maintaining legacy systems that require a traditional init approach
• Related to: linux-system-administration, gentoo-linux

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

Use Upstart if: You want 04, as it was the default init system and can live with specific tradeoffs depend on your use case.

Use OpenRC if: You prioritize it is useful for system administrators and devops engineers who need fine-grained control over service dependencies, want a simple and fast init system without systemd's complexity, or are maintaining legacy systems that require a traditional init approach over what Upstart offers.

The Bottom Line

Upstart wins

Developers should learn Upstart when working on Linux systems, particularly Ubuntu versions prior to 15