Virtual Private Server is one of the most popular and convenient types of hosting. At its core, VPS is a successful combination of two types of hosting. On the one hand, VPS services involve the use of a server with other users. On the other hand, each user receives an assigned location and production capacity for a clearly defined cost structure. This allows server neighbors to use their power completely independently of each other. Every time someone chooses a VPS service, they choose a tariff plan that matches the request of a particular project. This makes VPS one of the most convenient hosting options available. In addition to the possibility of a detailed configuration of VPS hosting, affordable scalability is also assumed, which makes this hosting option possible in many years of use.
The use of VPS becomes possible thanks to one operating system. Due to the many years of development in the hosting industry, every time someone thinks about starting their work with VPS, they are required to choose from two operating systems before: Windows or Linux. We talked about the main differences and which operating system is better with Alexander Svadkovsky, CEO of is*hosting, which has been providing hosting services in the European and US markets for over 16 years.
Linux: benefits of using
The first and most important advantage of Linux, according to most experts, is the stability of this operating system. Servers running Linux rarely need to be rebooted, and the fact that Linux is an open-source operating system works in favor of security. Too many experts have contributed and continue to contribute to Linux security over time. However, do not forget that hosting settings play an important role in security.
The use of Linux is often associated with flexibility in choosing control systems: cPanel, ISPmanager 5, Plesk, and others will be available. In addition, a certain competitive advantage of this operating system is that it is ideal for open-source software (Java, Python, ROR SSH, PHP / Perl, CGI, etc.). Linux not only requires fewer resources to run. Using this OS helps to get rid of the necessity to reboot the server every time the load is high or in cases when someone needs to activate a server configuration change. Another important factor is that the SSH network protocol is supported by default in Linux, so the user does not need to buy other software. At the same time, both operating systems work with the FTP and Telnet protocols.
It should be clear that such a high level of security and flexibility when working with VPS on Linux is associated with a certain level of knowledge and skills of the user. However, this nuance can be partly offset by the right choice of a hosting provider: reliable companies often provide administration services and will always provide all possible assistance to the user through support service specialists.
Windows
Unlike free distributions of the main competitor, Windows server operating systems require the purchase of a licensed version. A number of important features follow from this simple fact. First of all, for small hosting providers, this directly affects the monthly cost of a VPS service plan. However, the obligation to purchase a license also has a number of undeniable advantages. Windows Server is designed and operates with full user support in mind. The license allows you to use Windows Server, which saves a significant amount of time on setting up and ensuring performance. In addition, it allows users to buy licenses for the constant updating of antiviruses and protection in general. So, the issue of security, in this case, should be closed by the developer company and the correct server settings from the hosting provider. Another advantage of the OS for servers from Windows is an intuitive GUI (Graphical User Interface). However, one should not assume that every owner of an Internet resource will be able to use it without a sufficient level of training. This is only relevant for comparison with Linux, but it’s still a server job. In fact, to give preference to one of the operating systems in terms of software that will be used on the server. You should always read the requirements of the software you will be using before choosing an OS. If this is a website, Linux is enough, but if it is complex software (for example, for bank software), most likely, it will be Windows Server.
What to choose
As we can see, the differences between Linux and Windows in the case of VPS are quite specific, and it is possible to make a serious choice only on the basis of the same specific requests of each specific user. You should start first of all with the control panel that will be most convenient for you. If working with Linux involves a choice, then in the case of Windows, you will have to limit yourself to Plesk. Despite the fact that most programming languages are supported on both operating systems, there are nuances. For example, to work with WordPress, running on a PHP + MySQL bundle, Linux servers that involve optimization are ideal. At the same time, if you plan to use ASP, ASP.NET to create web pages, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft Access and Microsoft SharePoint, Visual Basic, Microsoft Exchange, C #, Remote Desktop, or others, then Windows is definitely worth choosing.
If you try to put all the pros and cons of each of the operating systems on the scales, it becomes clear why Linux and Windows are the undisputed world leaders when it comes to operating systems for servers. As can be seen from all of the above, Linux is suitable for those users for whom one of the significant advantages is a high level of customization. Windows can greatly simplify the work. However, the decisive factors in the choice in most cases are the preferences of the user and the requirements of each individual Internet project.
Conclusion
If you plan to start using the VPS service, be sure to take some time to choose the operating system before choosing a plan. Start from your own preferences in the choice of control systems and compatibility with software and programming languages. Try to clearly prioritize the operation of your Internet resource, taking into account the difference in resource consumption for each of the operating systems, data security issues, and other components. However, the first and most important step should be choosing the right provider. In this case, the experience of working with VPS on any operating system has every chance of becoming positive.
