When it comes to choosing a server operating system, Windows offers a number of features that you will need to pay for. Linux is open-source, and free puts users in the driver’s seat.
Let’s think of the server as software that handles hardware tasks. Hardware can range from a single host connected to an internal network to a range of high-tech external hardware services on the cloud.
What is the difference between a Windows and Linux server? Which system you use (Windows or Linux) to power your server depends on your business needs, your IT expertise, and the software you want to load. It can also determine the type of provider you want to use, as detailed below for a comparison of Windows and Linux server differences.
Comparison of Windows and Linux server differences
Benefits of the Windows Server operating system
Which is better Windows or Linux server? The Windows Server package, professionally designed by Microsoft to monetize, has some compelling advantages. Pay for your service and get better support than open-source Linux, which is more or less developed and supported by the community. As expected, Windows customer support is provided through Microsoft and its resellers.
Your Windows applications (Outlook, Office, etc.) will be integrated with Windows Server immediately. If you use Windows software and services, it makes sense to run them on a native platform.
If you’re running a Microsoft SQL-based database backend, it won’t run on a Linux server unless you have the Windows emulator installed. To do this, you must purchase separate copies of Windows and database software.
What is the difference between a Windows and Linux server? Windows servers are often considered a complete solution that can be set up quickly and easily. If you want remote desktop access through an intuitive graphical user interface, Windows can provide this capability without the command-line programming required by Linux.
Does your business need a scripting framework like ASP and ASP.Net? An ASP or Active Server Page is a web page that contains a small embedded program, that is, a script. The scripts and web pages you develop from these programs can only run on Windows servers. The Microsoft server processes these scripts before loading the page for the user. This is not possible in Linux.
Advantages of Linux servers over Windows
Windows and Linux Server Differences Comparison: Linux is an open-source operating system (OS) and IT infrastructure platform that supports distributions such as Ubuntu, Fedora, and CentOS. Its source code is a way for coders to change and update the functionality of the software. Users can go to the source code editing feature or fix the error.
Linux, because it is open source, is free. The web host only pays for technical support for the installation and maintenance of the program, if needed. Business server providers don’t need to pass on additional costs to their customers. On the other hand, when it comes to Windows servers, companies usually have to pay for the operating system and a subscription to use it.
Linux is instantly compatible with other open-source software products and offers a fast interface for seamless adoption. Linux users can run Windows programs, but they must purchase interface software and pay for a Windows license. This comes in handy when you have old apps that have to run on a Windows emulator.
Linux servers and the applications they run typically use fewer computer resources because they are designed to run lean. One benefit is that programmers can modify Linux servers and software “on the fly” without rebooting, which is not possible in a Windows environment. Microsoft Windows servers tend to be slower under multi-database tasks and have a higher risk of crashes.
Linux is more secure than Windows.
While no system is immune to hackers and malware, Linux tends to be a low-key target. Since Windows runs most of the world’s software, hackers are looking for the low-hanging fruit—Windows.
Windows vs. Linux Server: Head to Head
What is the difference between a Windows and Linux server? Now that we’ve given Windows and Linux the same amount of time, let’s make three final head-to-head comparisons:
1. The learning curve for installing and managing a Linux server is steep. Windows users don’t need to be programming experts to customize servers.
2. Which is better Windows or Linux server? Linux is a better choice for web developers who can configure open-source Apache or NGINX servers. Similarly, developers who work with MySQL databases know that Perl, PHY, or Python development tools are long-time favorites, with wider online community support.
3. The Windows server package includes technical support, as well as regular system upgrades and security fixes. Linux technology is developing at a slower pace. It’s a streamlined system. You don’t have to keep upgrading for features you might not need. You can add these features to Linux yourself.
Comparison of Windows and Linux Server Differences: Server Costs
On Windows configurations, expect to pay more to get the exact features you need. For example, a hosted Sharepoint site or Exchange server can allow you to go beyond what a typical Windows-based server provides. Ask if they’re available and see if you can get help configuring them.
Again, note that your existing database software can only run on a MySQL server. Also, if you need remote computing in the future, you’ll also need to ask about remote desktop access.
If you’re in the Linux camp, you’ll need a host to simplify your access to common Linux tools like PHP and MySQL. Look for advanced features, such as the ability to use time to schedule assignments.
Make server operating system decisions
Which is better Windows or Linux server? When you decide whether to use Windows or Linux, you’ll need to find a reliable and experienced provider to help with the installation. Consider the following factors in your final decision:
- Do you need 24-hour responsive support, and is your eCommerce site’s mission critical? Windows support is provided with the product. Linux may not be as responsive as that.
- Can you use a shared hosting solution or do you need the benefits of a dedicated server? The latter is more expensive, but safer. The former is cheaper, but less secure; You share bandwidth and resources with other customers on the host system.
- What are your plans for future growth? Auto-scaling to allow your secure data storage and bandwidth to grow as your business grows, which is part of the service.
- How interested are you in cloud computing? Do you go all-in or go with a hybrid solution to keep your data closer?
Learn more about Linux ransomware attacks, what are the most well-known attacks, and what you can do to protect your system.
Summary: Comparison of Windows and Linux server differences
Deciding between Windows and Linux requires an understanding of the pros and cons of each system and how they fit into your hosting needs.
What is the difference between a Windows and Linux server? You can work cross-platform with Windows and Linux. Note that convenience comes at a price. If you need to run Windows on Linux, you’ll have to pay for software and application licenses.
If you choose Windows, you’ll get simple installation and configuration, as well as excellent support. If you’re using Linux, then you’re using an open-source operating system with a community support network – no higher cost.
Once you’ve decided between Windows and Linux, look for a vendor that can meet your needs based on your company’s business model and needs.
