Are you planning to a website and trying to decide between Linux and Windows? Making the right choice from the start is important, since switching a few months after launch can sometimes be problematic. Both operating systems have their advantages and disadvantages. You’ll need to weigh them to make a logical choice.
Consider each category to make sure that you have a complete overview of each choice. The categories to consider are:
- convenience
- compatibility
- security and stability
- pricing
- support
- file transfer
You’ll be able to choose the right operating system after considering these factors.
Table of Contents
Convenience
Linux has a reputation for being more convenient to use than Windows. Windows users don’t appreciate this, however, since many of them have been using the platform for so long that they have grown to live with the user-interface (UI) problems.
Newcomers to hosting should choose Linux if they want a lower learning curve. Using Linux allows you to launch your website faster, which is ideal if you’re in a hurry.
Don’t have a Linux computer? That’s not a problem since you can use a Linux hosting setup on a Windows computer. If you see and like the advantages, you can then switch over to Linux at a future date.
Compatibility
The components of each part of the system must be able to link up without compatibility issues. The frameworks, languages, and apps need to have excellent compatibility. Otherwise, you could struggle to launch your hosting setup.
Therefore, you need to choose every component of the system before starting. Windows systems use MSSQL, Visual Basic, and ASP.NET. On the other hand, Linux allows you to use Apache and SSH components.
Stability and security
Users report that Linux users experience fewer security problems than do Windows users. It might be because Windows is more popular by a large margin. Therefore, hackers focus on that operating system. Linux does not have better security features, but the nature of the system means that you’re less likely to face an issue.
The hosting company you choose is the biggest determining factor when it comes to security. Most hosting companies are explicit about the security features they offer to customers. Read this section carefully to figure out where you can receive the best protection.
Windows tends to release security patches monthly or even more often depending on urgency. Linux tends to patch security problems immediately, which is a bonus. A large number of Linux developers worldwide are standing by, ready to fix security holes.
Pricing
Linux is the cheaper option compared to Windows. You may find good deals on Windows if a promotion is running. Otherwise, Windows is significantly more expensive, which can put a big dent into your budget.
Linux is a free operating system, so that’s a pricing advantage from the start. Also, Linux hosting solutions cost less money because there is less demand.
File Transfer
Transferring files is a core function when running website-maintenance tasks. FTP is a file transfer format utilized by both operating systems. Mostly Linux owners use SSH and Telnet file transfer protocols.
Choosing the right file transfer protocols is about compatibility. The two systems must have the capacity to accept the file transfer protocol in question.
Application
What kind of website are you planning to run? The answers can help you choose the right operating system. For example, Linux has an advantage when running Joomla, Magento, and WordPress. Windows has a reputation for running BlogEngine, Umbraco, and nopCommerce at better performance levels.
Give your website the best chance to succeed by choosing the platform that can run the required software. Linux and Windows can run most applications, but you’re looking for optimal performance to give your website an edge.
Support
The support you need depends on your experience levels. Newcomers that don’t have much technical experience will need more help, which means Windows should be the platform of choice. The vast number of Windows users ensures that the infrastructure built up around the platform will be excellent. You’ll also find documentation for most technical issues that you’ll face.
Linux has fewer users, which means that the support out there is not comparable to that of Windows. You may encounter a problem for which no solution is available. Therefore, you need to be more technically savvy to work out how to move forward.
Conclusion
The many differences between Linux and Windows mean that making a choice will be simple in most cases. Linux is the platform of choice if you want to save money, are technically savvy, and want good security. It’s not the most popular platform, but its unique advantages might be what you need.
Windows offers great support, which means you can quickly solve problems. Technical issues can lead to severe financial loss. Therefore, choose an operating system that you have the skills to maintain. You could give both operating systems a try using a money-back guarantee deal. Compare, using personal experience, to make the right choice.