Linux VPS vs Windows VPS : Which one is right for you?
Digital innovation has made it important for organizations to embrace emerging technology and change the ways they do business. In order to be more open to consumers, changing business models and revenue sources have pushed organizations to build websites. However, not all businesses are conscious of the technical aspects of website hosting, bandwidth, server security, operating system, scalability, etc. It leaves them vulnerable and could contribute to wrong choices that could have a negative effect on the business.
The Operating System (OS) you choose for your VPS hosting is one such critical factor that can impact your company. Although it is overwhelming to pick the hosting server, the task does not end there. From the types of apps you can install to the ease of use, the operating system that you choose for your VPS can have an effect on your business.
It is important to understand the needs and goals of your business, along with your budget, technological capabilities, etc, when selecting the best OS for VPS.
Top VPS OS Options Available
When it comes to VPS Operating Systems, there are two options available at your disposal – Windows and Linux.
- Windows is offered by Microsoft and has superior compatibility with programs as well as applications offered by Microsoft. Windows OS for VPS is developed by the technical team of Microsoft, and using it would not require a great deal of technical knowledge. It is also comparatively easier to manage a Windows server environment.
- On the other hand, Linux is an open-source platform that comes with a range of options that you could select. Being open-source, these Operating Systems are practically free, with the enterprise versions still being cheaper than the Windows OS. Ubuntu and CentOS are two Linux-based OS for VPS, which are easier to use and ideal for first-time users. Options for more technologically sound users include Debian, Red Hat, Fedora, and OpenSUSE. Some of the Linux-based Operating Systems are:
- CentOS
- Debian
- Red Hat (RHEL)
- Fedora
- Ubuntu
Linux VPS vs Windows VPS
After understanding the wide range of VPS options available at your disposal, you must understand the key differences between the Windows and Linux based VPS Operating Systems.
Security
With the the number of cyber security breaches and DDoS attacks, ensuring that the best security is offered by your VPS Operating System has become essential. In terms of security, due to its open-source and open community, Linux is comparatively more stable. These two things ensure that any bugs or backdoors are easily detected and rectified. The fact that Linux has a smaller user base when compared with Microsoft also makes it less vulnerable. On the other hand, Microsoft does have a secure OS, but given the number of attempted attacks, it is more likely to be breached.
Performance
When you visit your business website, your users expect a fast and consistent user experience. This makes the efficiency of your VPS’s Operating System equally critical for your business’s success. Linux is designed to be used with a Stable Remote Login, and it is possible to use the command line for the entire management.. Linux also does not require reboots after every update resulting in faster performance. However, the Command Line Interface (CLI) involves inputting lines of commands for every instruction and can be complicated for a common user.
Windows uses Graphical User Interface (GUI), making it more user-friendly. With the widespread use of Windows OS in personal computers and laptops, a general user is more adept at handling the easy-to-use interface of Windows. The CLI of Linux OS can be complicated for people who lack technical proficiency. Thus, Windows OS with GUI is intuitive and anyone, irrespective of how technically savvy they might be, can use it. However, with Windows OS, VPS needs to be rebooted after every driver update or patch.
Technical Support
Regardless of your team’s technological experience, you’ll need the technical assistance of the Operating System support teams at some point in time. It could be as minor as fixing a minor glitch for something, or it could be as extreme as a hacking attempt. Linux is supported by a large group of coders who repair bugs, address open forum questions and share solutions to common problems. However, as this is a voluntary service, grievance resolution is not dedicated or quick and can take a longer time. Microsoft is a paid service with high licensing fees. This ensures that there is a dedicated support team whose only duty is to help you solve your queries as soon as possible. Thus, Microsoft VPS OS will ensure better customer service.
Scalability
As your business grows, you will need a server OS that can equip you to handle increased traffic without compromising the performance. Irrespective of whether you are using Linux VPS or Windows VPS, you will be able to upgrade both of them.
Cost
Finally, regardless of the functionality, it comes down to the value that each OS offers on the basis of the cost involved. There are no monthly costs for the use of Linux OS and most Linux-based applications and software is free to use. On the other hand, Microsoft products require you to purchase a license. So, you may end up paying a license fee for the Operating System for your VPS and a few other applications that you might use.
Conclusion
As mentioned earlier in the article, choosing the best OS for your VPS is not as easy as it might seem. You will have to evaluate the unique needs of your company and the tools available to you, both in terms of the workforce and finances. Linux OS for VPS will be more flexible, compatible, and developer-friendly.
On the other hand, Windows OS for VPS will be extremely easy to use with an intuitive interface, along with improved control and better and quick support.
With each Operating System offering an exclusive set of benefits, it becomes imperative that you determine your exact needs and proficiencies. So, opt for the Operating System that meets most of your organizational requirements and goals.
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