Web hosting is one of the most profitable internet-based industries in existence. Why? Because more people are investing in websites to either run an online business or simply establish a presence out in cyberspace. While there are many types of web hosting on the market, most variations revolve around two essential elements - Linux and Windows. Since you are likely to encounter these platforms when looking for somewhere to host your site, it is important to know what each has to offer.
Windows Hosting
Microsoft Windows is the most popular operating system available, installed in many homes and corporate offices throughout the world. The system became prominent in the network server environment with the introduction of Windows NT. Windows hosting is based on the operating system itself and IIS (Internet Information Services), a web server application developed by Microsoft. This type of hosting integrates with a wide range of Microsoft products with the most notable being the SQL Server, a relational database system, and ASP (Active Server Pages), Microsoft’s version of the server-side programming language.
Linux Hosting
The Linux operating system as we know it is based on the Linux kernel, which gets its characteristics from the original Unix platform. Linux began as a hobbyist project and was eventually released under the GNU General Public License. Under the GPL, Linux is an open-source operating system that can be modified and distributed freely. This platform is commonly used in the server environment as well as devices that range from mobile phones to supercomputers. Linux hosting typically integrates with other open-source technologies. Whereas Windows hosting thrives off IIS, the Linux platform runs with the Apache web server. Instead of using the SQL Server and ASP, it uses open-source software packages such as the MySQL database server and PHP server-side programming language.
Speed and Reliability
Traditionally, Linux has been more secure than Windows in the web hosting environment. The system was made to perform demanding tasks and grants a level of control that greatly enhances its capability. Additionally, Linux was developed with security in mind and therefore isn’t prone to as many threats as Windows. On the other hand, the security of Windows has improved tremendously over the years, especially with the recent edition of Windows Server 2008. Significant upgrades have not only made it more secure, but also one of the fastest and most reliable server platforms available.
Cost Factor
The major difference between Linux and Windows hosting is price. While Linux isn’t necessarily free, many of its components are, allowing web hosting providers to offer their services for a fraction of the cost. Since Windows typically consists of various Microsoft products, licenses are involved, often making this type of hosting more expensive. On a positive note, the popularity of web hosting has dropped prices all across the board, ultimately making it easier to find Windows-based hosting at a reasonable price.
Which Type of Hosting Do You Need?
The decision between Linux and Windows hosting boils down to personal preference. Though Linux is naturally more complex, this platform is simplified when you don’t have direct contact with the server. Many base their choice on the complimenting technologies as some choose to code with PHP while others prefer ASP. Whatever you decide, rest assured that both of these solutions are capable of meeting your personal or business needs.
Windows Hosting
Microsoft Windows is the most popular operating system available, installed in many homes and corporate offices throughout the world. The system became prominent in the network server environment with the introduction of Windows NT. Windows hosting is based on the operating system itself and IIS (Internet Information Services), a web server application developed by Microsoft. This type of hosting integrates with a wide range of Microsoft products with the most notable being the SQL Server, a relational database system, and ASP (Active Server Pages), Microsoft’s version of the server-side programming language.
Linux Hosting
The Linux operating system as we know it is based on the Linux kernel, which gets its characteristics from the original Unix platform. Linux began as a hobbyist project and was eventually released under the GNU General Public License. Under the GPL, Linux is an open-source operating system that can be modified and distributed freely. This platform is commonly used in the server environment as well as devices that range from mobile phones to supercomputers. Linux hosting typically integrates with other open-source technologies. Whereas Windows hosting thrives off IIS, the Linux platform runs with the Apache web server. Instead of using the SQL Server and ASP, it uses open-source software packages such as the MySQL database server and PHP server-side programming language.
Speed and Reliability
Traditionally, Linux has been more secure than Windows in the web hosting environment. The system was made to perform demanding tasks and grants a level of control that greatly enhances its capability. Additionally, Linux was developed with security in mind and therefore isn’t prone to as many threats as Windows. On the other hand, the security of Windows has improved tremendously over the years, especially with the recent edition of Windows Server 2008. Significant upgrades have not only made it more secure, but also one of the fastest and most reliable server platforms available.
Cost Factor
The major difference between Linux and Windows hosting is price. While Linux isn’t necessarily free, many of its components are, allowing web hosting providers to offer their services for a fraction of the cost. Since Windows typically consists of various Microsoft products, licenses are involved, often making this type of hosting more expensive. On a positive note, the popularity of web hosting has dropped prices all across the board, ultimately making it easier to find Windows-based hosting at a reasonable price.
Which Type of Hosting Do You Need?
The decision between Linux and Windows hosting boils down to personal preference. Though Linux is naturally more complex, this platform is simplified when you don’t have direct contact with the server. Many base their choice on the complimenting technologies as some choose to code with PHP while others prefer ASP. Whatever you decide, rest assured that both of these solutions are capable of meeting your personal or business needs.
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