cPanel is dropping support for Rocky Linux 8 and 9 in March 2026 (starting with version 134) to focus resources on AlmaLinux as the primary RHEL-compatible OS. This strategic decision aims to reduce maintenance overhead by aligning with a single, preferred, and community-driven RHEL alternative, rather than splitting efforts between multiple similar, independent, and enterprise-focused operating systems.

Key reasons for the deprecation include:
Focus on AlmaLinux: cPanel has indicated that AlmaLinux has become the preferred choice in the RHEL-compatible ecosystem, streamlining development and support resources.
Operational Efficiency: Managing and testing multiple, identical RHEL clones (Rocky, Alma, RHEL) is resource-intensive; cPanel is consolidating its support focus.
Industry Trends: As part of a regular evaluation of supported operating systems, cPanel aims to streamline, following a similar pattern of consolidating RHEL-based platforms.