Toe-to-Toe: Linux Vs Windows Hosting

Most servers on the market come preinstalled with Windows or Linux Oss. That is why it is important to know the difference between the two when you set out shopping for a hosting plan that best serves your IT needs. Making the correct choice also serves to positively impact the behavior of the server and how you are able to interact with it although the differences are now always apparent. In some instances, users have no idea what OS is installed on their server as the vast majority of their time comprises interactions by way of a Content Management System or applications such as cPanel. It, however, remains important to know what each of the OSs entails. Here is a closer look. 

Why You Need to Care About OS Choice

The following are some of the notable reasons why you need to care about the choice of OS on which your server runs: 

• OSs are not made equal as each behaves differently and allows you to customize a unique experience. Your preferred software demands that you go for a compatible OS. 
• There are applications that can only run on specific OSs with cPanel being one example that is only available for Linux.
• Developers and System Administrators naturally prefer Linux as it presents more customization options. 

Linux Vs Windows Hosting

Benefits of Linux Server Hosting

Apart from ease-of-use, other advantages of opting for Linux hosting include: 

More reliability

Linux and open-source software are generally more efficient as they use fewer resources.

Cost savings

Linux is an open-source system that is available to the public. This makes it cheaper as hosting companies only need to worry about installation and maintenance technical support. This is unlike Windows hosting which requires payment for the Operating System or software license. 

Easy modification

It is easy to modify Linux servers and software as and when required, whereas Windows products will require waiting for a new version of the server. 

Open-source applications

Opting for Linux hosting enables you to use open-source applications in a seamless fashion. This is an advantage as applications tend to work perfectly when paired with applications of a similar design. Use of Windows applications is possible but only after interfacing Linux with Windows for-profit technology. 

Benefits of Windows Server Hosting

Better Integration with Microsoft products 

If your business uses Windows software, Windows servers are the best as the two integrate well.   Windows servers are also the only option for large corporations that need to run Microsoft SQL in cluster hosting environments or Microsoft Access in desktop environments. 

Remote desktop access 

A remote desktop with a graphical user interface that comes with Windows servers makes it easy to manage the servers. This is way better than command-line based Linux servers. 

Better support

Though it is paid, windows support trumps that of Linux which calls for the hiring of experts in open-source software or rely on community support.

Scripting frameworks

Windows server hosting scripting frameworks such as ASP and ASP.Net are much easier to install and manage and come with better support when compared with those of Linux servers. 

You can always count on getting more bells and whistles when it comes to Windows server hosting and software. At the end of the day, the best way to proceed is by identifying a web hosting services consultant that can help you best cater to your IT needs.