Obtaining the installation media for CentOS 7 typically involves acquiring an ISO image, which is an archive file containing the entire installation source. This file can then be used to create bootable media, such as a USB drive or DVD, enabling the installation or reinstallation of the operating system. For example, attempting to set up a server using CentOS 7 often begins with acquiring the correct ISO image.
Accessing the installation media is a fundamental step in deploying CentOS 7. It allows for the consistent and reproducible deployment of the operating system across various hardware platforms. Historically, acquiring this media was essential for both individual users and organizations seeking a stable and reliable Linux distribution. Due to CentOS 7 End of Life (EOL), using a mirror to download it is important.