Choosing the platform you are going to use for your server can be a tough decision that will bring you to more professionalism. Choosing platform is another step in your mind knowledgebase that is about to open you a wider horizons and capacity to learn new things concerning Operating Systems (OSs) and their management.
Several choices of platform are available. The most widely used Operating Systems are the Enterprise, or server, versions of Linux and Windows.
Let's sit down and sort things out regarding both Oss. A huge research was made on comparing both operating systems and major key advantages are pointed out. The decision of what platform to choose will appear on its own, while now you just read this information, keeping in mind the satisfaction of your needs and wishes.
On the first place there always are cost considerations. Microsoft produces and owns the rights to the entire Windows OS from recently freed XP to Vista. It may look that applying Windows on your server is more costly to install and to run. But, by expert's opinion, this really would not affect you unless you set up the server yourself. On the other hand, Linux is the “open source” software. Linux solution is most of times is free.
Let's together through this article make the rundown and you will be able to come up with best decision regarding your hosting server Operating System. Keep in mind that costs inherent in running a server do not always affect the price of the hosting plan given by website hosting companies. The fact that a single Windows server is more costly is wrong because web-hosting company installs several dozens of them and more. In real life, Linux hosting package from hosting provider might be more affordable then Windows one. The decision should be made on the future web site specifics as both operating system's platforms are valuable and reliable.
People sometimes tend to think that just because their computers operate on Windows OS, they should follow and purchase a Windows hosting plan, not necessarily. Your web account access is done through FTP or a hosting Control Panel. All servers support these technologies. The most important difference is that some FTP commands are different in Linux and Windows. And, the FTP programs are usually provided for only one or the other.
Your major concentration should be how you intend to use your server, and make your decision based on these facts. PHP, e-mail protocols, IMAP, POP configurations will just run great on both Oss' platforms. ASP, Windows FrontPage, the .Net environment, Access, Windows Streaming Media and other Microsoft solutions will likely more require a Windows host. Linux, in order to run smoothly these Microsoft family programs, will need additional add-ons that are usually for sale.
Regarding Stability and Growth. Internet is filled with various types of discussions and many tests were done to detect weaknesses. Hackers rates have been lower with Linux but not necessarily. After considering all good and bad sides of both Linux and Windows platforms it comes to server company management and systems' administration. If your major concern is the security then research the hosting company's background. Also, read reviews by other hosting companies. This way you will be able to evaluate hosting company and will be more calm and trustful about using their hosting services.
Performances of the two servers are similar. Both Operating Systems have their own, different strengths. It depends which ones you need to use more.
The best use of your time is to connect with good/best hosting company rather than focus on server model or OS. Linux and Windows developers are working day and night in order to make these OSs better. At the moment both platforms look roughly equivalent (security, features, reliability, etc.). As the result, you will operate well both and concentrate on success of your web-sites in the Internet reality.
