Windows Dedicated Server and Linux Dedicated Server
The business sites witnessing high traffic on a regular basis require a lot of power for delivering high quality and consistent site browsing experience to the users. All this and more are available from a Windows Dedicated Server. Even a Linux dedicated server has the capability of providing such services as both these dedicated server types have the right supporting infrastructure to do the same. Well, when migrating to an existing site or when designing a brand-new site, it is completely upon the users to make their choice between Windows and Linux dedicated servers.
To start with, the software you are already using for maintaining and supporting your site plays the role of the main deciding factor when it comes to choosing between a Windows dedicated server and a Linux dedicated server. There are certain applications that only work on any one of these servers, and making changes might not at all be preferable. This goes special for individuals and businesses with well-established websites. However, if you are starting right from scratch, it is important for you to consider the server operating system that comes with the best of features along with the support required for meeting the requirements of your company.
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Main Differences between Windows and Linux Dedicated Servers
The differences between a Windows dedicated server and a Linux dedicated server can be laid down on varied parameters, which include the following:
Price
Of course, the cost of a dedicated server is not the only factor guiding your choice of a server, but it does bear some consideration. Speaking of Linux, it is an open-source operating system that does not require any licensing fee. On the other hand, Windows Web Hosting tends to be more expensive than Linux mainly because it comes with Microsoft licensing included.
System Power
RAM, bandwidth and any disk completely dedicated to running your operating system cannot be used for the other website procedures. Windows might require approximately two to six times more space or power, while Linux is lighter in weight and requires very little server power for operation. Therefore, when going for Windows, it is important for you to ensure that the server has sufficient resources for dealing with the load while still offering a top-quality site experience.
Familiarity
The majority of the developers offering services in the market tend to be more comfortable in using Windows than the Linux Dedicated Server. This means that any kind of switching from a Windows server to a Linux server can hold back your company. Nevertheless, it is also important to note that IT professionals are very good at handling the learning curve of Linux servers. Whether you are going for Windows or Linux server does not really matter. What actually matters is you must make it a point to go for the operating system you think your team would be comfortable working with. It is also important for you to ensure that your team has the capability of handling regular maintenance, running company applications, and making updates on the operating system you are choosing.
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Server Characteristics
The SQL servers work great with the Windows operating system, while MySQL and PHP databases are great for Linux servers. The database structure you are going for can have a major influence on your potential of scaling up and updating important applications as required. Linux is needed for accessing the server through Telnet or SSH, while FTP can preferably be used for accessing and maintaining the other operating systems.
Dashboard
Easy access to different essentials of a website on both the operating systems is provided by way of a certain admin dashboard. The Windows dedicated servers use Plesk- the dashboard specifically designed for maximum performance when used with the operating system. On Linux, it is the cPanel interface that is commonly used. It features a super-intuitive setup along with clear and effective icons. This is one setup that is highly preferred by the majority of the hosting services. The integration and security features of any 3rd party software might be the right choice for cPanel, but there’s Plesk providing a more user-friendly and robust environment.
Windows-Specific Applications
Of course, Windows is the most common operating system used for website development, but it is one OS that is not commonly required for the majority of the hosting users. To be more specific, the users of the Windows operating system have certain specific requirements. In the majority of the cases, specifically in the shared server hosting environment, it will be just fine to use the Linux operating system.
The Windows applications that need a Windows server are as follows:
- MSSQL or Microsoft SQL Server
- ASP Classic
- MS Access or Microsoft Access
- ASP.NET
- C#
- Visual Basic Development
The Windows dedicated servers have the ability to support additional Windows-specific apps, but then the users have to buy licenses for certain applications and then install software on their servers.
Linux-Specific Applications
Linux is an open-source and free platform that has worked as a standard in the industry and is one of the most commonly used operating systems in recent times. The Linux operating system is one of the most popular choices for website servers and comes with more of those features that are expected by professional and experienced web designers.
The Bottom Line
Making the right choice between a Linux and Windows dedicated hosting solution is completely a matter of which OS allows the right scaling up of business and provides the right kind of support for the software.
