What is the Difference Between Linux and Windows Hosting?
When you’re getting started with your business, you’ll have two options for your hosting; Linux and Windows hosting. Besides these, there are several operating systems that are not in much use. Linux and Windows are the two commonly used OS available. Both types of hosting come under the term of shared hosting.
If you don’t know which type of hosting will suit your business, you’ll always end up facing troubles. You definitely don’t want to make the wrong choices. In this article, we’ve put together a guide for you to make the best decision for your business.
What is Linux Hosting?
Linux is an open-source platform and the most popular hosting service used around the world. The source code can be used, modified and redistributed for free in both commercial and non-commercial means. It is the most mature system among all the servers, including Windows. A vast amount of websites are hosted on Linux because of its high reputation in the web hosting world as it allows greater user options and customization.
What is Windows Hosting?
Windows hosting uses the Windows operating system as a server and is compatible with Windows-specific technologies. It doesn’t provide many user options and customization like Linux. Windows is not commonly used because most common web hosting plan options run on Linux. The Windows operating system is not free, and hosting is more expensive, but it’s quite easy to use and offers great support.
Server-side Applications
Windows supports applications written in:
- ASP.NET
- MS SQL
- PHP
- MySQL
- Visual Basic development
- MS Access
Applications that Windows do not support:
- WordPress
- Python
- Perl
- CGI
- WYSIWYG
The web Programming language that both Linux and Windows support:
- PHP
- MySQL
Although MySQL and PHP are more commonly used in Linux.
Linux Vs. Windows Hosting
Linux and Windows hosting are very different from each other. Below is a breakdown of how they compare:
Ease of Use
Linux is not that easy to use. It works on the command line with syntaxes and functions, which are a little hard to learn. That is why many servers use Cpanel to make server maintenance easier.
On the other hand, Windows is very easy to use as it works on clicks. It uses the Plesk control panel for server maintenance.
Security and Stability
The majority of users claim that Linux is more secure than windows. When it comes to security, Linux provides better protection. When a problem occurs, the developers immediately find and patch the problem because Linux has a vast number of active developers worldwide.
Windows releases its security updates once a month, whether it is critical, so Windows is more prone to attacks. And also, as it is easy to use, hackers like to attack software they easily understand.
So, in a nutshell, Linux is more stable and secure.
Hardware and Software Compatibility
Windows servers are ideal for use in large organizations with complex IT infrastructures where it allows you to work with Microsoft applications. As such, you will benefit from better support.
On the other hand, Linux may not work smoothly with complex infrastructure. So relying on Linux based hosting is not a good option for corporate environments.
Pricing
No doubt Windows is more expensive than Linux. Linux OS is free, and hosting on Linux is cheaper than windows.
Windows offers free promotions sometimes, but in general, it is expensive software.
Speed
This is the area where Linux and Windows servers are equally matched. However, Linux is slightly faster in processing web pages.
Which Hosting You Should Choose, Linux or Windows?
So, what’s the final decision? Should you choose Windows Hosting or Linux Hosting? The decision may be complicated for many users; therefore, here’s a quick guide to help you decide.
If you want to work for a corporation, practice running a server on MSSQL for a positive feature on your resume. Suppose you’re already a developer with a corporate background. In that case, you should probably go with a Windows server as it is the best option and many corporations use Windows as an internal server.
If you’re not a developer, then you should use a Linux based server. It provides a Cpanel that covers most of the needs of users who run Blogs, e-commerce sites, or wikis. It also provides you with customization tools that don’t need a lot of learning. And if you ever need third party help, you can ask your hosting provider.
Windows hosting is a better option if a lot of your business tech relies on windows; it will work along with all the other programs you use and won’t require you to work on anything from scratch. Windows hosting makes sense for businesses that have been around for a while, already built their sites on windows programs, where Linux is more suitable for most new startup companies because of its affordability and reliability.
Packages AEserver Offer
AEserver allows you to choose between the three variations for both windows and linux hosting; startup plan, growth plan and business plan. It’s up to you what type of package you want to choose according to your requirements.
AEserver provides the best hosting, with all the tools you need to build the website of your dreams at the most affordable rates! Take a look at these unbelievingly low prices and get ready to buy your hosting.
Linux Web Hosting Packages in Dubai Data Center
Windows Web Hosting Packages
Conclusion
To recap, if you want to start a blog with WordPress or set up an online shop or forum using PHP and MySQL, then Linux is the best choice for you. However, if you want to use the .NET framework, windows will be a better option.
Choosing an OS for your web hosting depends on what kind of requirements your website needs. The key takeaway is that you need to consider your goals when choosing an operating system. The difference between Windows and Linux may sound insignificant, but they can have a major impact on your site; how would you manage your site as well as your site traffic.
By this article, you understand now that windows and Linux each have their own good points and bad points. Analyzing what is important to you and how these OS can affect your business will help you avoid headaches and rework.
And, if you’re still concerned about choosing between Windows and Linux, you can rely on our support, where our experts will help you out from choosing an OS to handle your site with Windows or Linux server.
