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09 May 2010
Which do I need?
Many people that are new to the hosting world think that because the computer they are sitting at is a Windows PC that they need Windows hosting. This is not true. Windows users can use Linux hosting and vice versa. Both systems will serve HTML pages and JavaScript. Linux will generally use .html extensions and Windows uses .htm, but there is no real difference in the pages. Both systems offer FTP or control panel upload/download as well.
Which is better?
There really is no “better” system. Both Linux and Windows have strengths and weaknesses. It’s more about what you are trying to accomplish. If you are looking to run Microsoft proprietary software such as ASP.NET, FrontPage or Access, then you will most likely go with a Windows server. While CGI, Perl and PHP are available on both systems, it is more common on Linux servers.
Which is more secure?
When it comes to security, both systems have their own flaws, but many people will argue that Windows is much more vulnerable to viruses and malware. This is because most of the computer viruses that are created are written for Windows systems.
Which is cheaper?
If you are setting up a server yourself, then Windows is much more expensive, however if you are purchasing hosting from a hosting company, then Windows hosting is usually the same price or even cheaper.
Uptime/Downtime
Windows servers usually require a reboot after system and driver updates. Linux servers are known for their long periods of uptime. Linux servers only have to reboot for kernel updates and most times can use a special utility to execute without a hardware reset. I would have to go with Linux on this one. Sorry Microsoft.
Bottom Line…
My advice is, do not choose hosting based on the operating system itself, but by which software, features and options you need. If you really want me to answer this question, I would say if you do not plan on using any Microsoft proprietary software, then go with Linux as your default choice.
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