The answer as to whether Linux hosting is superior to Windows hosting varies depending on who you ask. Both options offer certain advantages, some of which are minor while others are major ones. What are some of the advantages/disadvantages of these two operating systems?
The Cost Factor
Since Linux is an open source application, the initial price is perfect for those individuals looking to save money or cut down on business expenses. After all, Linux is free. All of the programmers are volunteers who provide quality work due to their commitment to the project. Is Linux actually free to use though? Not really. If a company is using Linux hosting, then they must also make arrangements for annual operating system (OS) support, which does have a hefty annual cost attached to it.
The initial cost of Windows, on the other hand, is not free despite the fact that it also has numerous programmers who provide quality work. In fact, Microsoft continually tweaks and changes the operating system, which leads to computer users constantly needing to spend more money in their quest to purchase the newest version of the Windows OS. Plus, annual system support is also a necessity that is going to add to business costs. Even so, some cost studies have indicated that the price to cover the management and maintenance of a Windows-based operating system is less than that of a Linux-based OS. The initial cost of the product itself is negligible when taking all of this into consideration.
The Performance/Stability Factor
While Windows-based operating systems have been designed to handle numerous applications and running processes at the same time, its stability appears to decrease as it does so. Early versions of Windows (95 and 98) have had serious issues with errors such as the infamous “Blue Screen” error. Later versions of Windows have had their own performance issues as well, offering the impression that the Windows-based operating system does not always offer the most stable or reliable performance for those who use it.
Linux, on the other hand, has been touted as being extremely reliable and stable when multiple processes are running at the same time. While this suggests that the Linux operating system might perform at a higher level than Windows, the truth of the matter is that the performance of an operating system is often directly linked to the knowledge of the individual who is using it. In the case of a small or large business, this responsibility falls on the system administrator.
Incorporating System Changes
Windows has been designed to accept changes readily via the technology and tools that have already been built into the OS. This makes for a streamlined effort on the part of the system administrator and a lower overall cost factor. With Linux, a variety of different processes and tools are often required in order to implement certain necessary changes. Of course, the overall cost of implementing such changes might be higher.
When Windows Hosting Is Superior to Linux Hosting
If a website and its applications are going to be based in .NET and ASP, then Windows hosting is the way to go. Linux simply cannot accommodate either of these.
Since the Windows OS is more popular than Linux, hosting services are often more readily available to choose.
When Linux Hosting Is Superior to Windows Hosting
Linux hosting can easily accommodate software that operates in the Linux environment such as phpBB boards or WordPress blogs.
Linux hosting is ideal for moderate level complexities including those that incorporate Shell scripts or necessitate root level access to the server.
Linux Web servers are thought to provide greater stability, robustness, and security than Windows Web servers.
Intro: When it comes to Web hosting, most computer users have an opinion as to which is better- Linux hosting or Windows hosting. Is one better than the other?
