Linux Hosting VS Windows Hosting - What’s The Difference?
Tuesday, September 1st, 2009When it comes to which operating system between Windows or Linux is better for making a server, there is a lot of discussion in the web hosting world. Some of the big arguments on which between Windows hosting and Linux hosting are sprung from exactly what your website is capable of on each OS and the way a website is delivered over the internet. To make the right decision, careful consideration should be taken.
Linux hosting has, for some time now, been the most popular choice for hosting websites. It is traditionally viewed as the most stable, reliable and efficient operating system for servers, though Windows hosting has begun to make a lot of progress in this area. Both systems have specific advantages and drawbacks that should help determine which server OS you eventually choose.
The biggest benefit of Linux hosting is definitely the price! Linux is an open source operating system so that means that it is free to the public to use as they please. That is exactly why it is the most affordable option. The most popular applications used in web development are also open source such as PHP, MySQL, and other programs. These run best on servers that are running on Linux.
Windows hosting, on the other hand, costs more because of its proprietary nature, but it allows you to host any kind of application on the same server. You could use an ASP.Net application backed up by an MS-SQL database behind it, and simultaneously host a PHP blog with a MySQL database to power it on the same server.
Linux development is an ongoing process by a huge community of users. Some people have been hesitant in the past to use an open source operating system because of a perceived lack of support, but now, thanks to the growing community of Linux developers, a user can quickly and easily find the help and support they need, or an application for almost any situation.
Both Linux hosting and Windows hosting platforms continue to grow and evolve, and they are becoming more advanced and more convenient to use. At the same time, they are becoming more specialized in how they can be most effectively used.
Since both the Linux hosting and Windows hosting platforms are still growing and evolving, they are both becoming more advanced and more user friendly. One the other hand, each of them are starting to become more specialized in how they are meant to be used.
In the end, that is the largest difference between the operating systems: what they are going to be used for. If you are planning a traditional website (graphics, text, ecommerce functions, etc) then you are probably okay using a Linux hosting platform. If, on the other hand, you are using a few more complex, interactive features, then Windows just might be the way to go.
Are you dazed and confused about the difference between Linux hosting and Windows hosting? Don’t worry your little heart, most people are! Hopefully now you can make the very best decision on which hosting solution is right for you.