Linux Dedicated Server vs. Windows Dedicated Server: Which is Right for You?

High-traffic websites need more power than blogs or portfolios to deliver a high-quality user experience. For the same reason, only a dedicated server provides enough resources to reach this purpose. When you want to buy one, you’ll have to choose between Windows and Linux OS. Here’s what you should know about both software!

What is a Linux server?

Linux is an open-source operating system, meaning everyone can work in it through a command line. As a result, it’s easy to create an OS that is stable, secure and has the features you need. It’s also a popular choice due to low costs involved. There’s no licensing fee and you’ll have a great graphical interface as an advanced user. Besides that, you will modify settings without rebooting the system. Linux servers support mainly MYSQL and programming languages such as Python or PHP. 

What is a Windows server?

As you already know, Windows is a commercial software created by Microsoft. The distributions are popular among beginners, since they don’t require technical knowledge and are easy to operate. Unlike Linux, you need to purchase a license for using an official version. The good part is the fact you get long-term support as a bonus. You will be able to work in Microsoft Office, having the most apps ready for your team members. Windows is great especially if you decide to use Microsoft SQL or another similar program.

What server requires more power?

Linux is more lightweight on dedicated servers than Windows, so it needs less power to run. The other software might require anywhere between 2-6 times more resources. That’s why it’s important to read the specs online and make sure there won’t be any issue. In WIndows many programs run in the background, eating up the RAM memory. Another reason Linux will bring a better speed is the way files are organized. They’re located in chunks that are closed to each other, making the read-write operations faster.

What server has better security? 

Linux is open-source and all the people can access the source code, but that doesn’t mean the security is weak. It’s very difficult to find vulnerabilities and the community will help users solve any issue. In other words, the maintenance is better when we talk about cyber attacks. You will create accounts with limited access, so only a small part of the system will be damaged. In Windows you have full admin access over all the users. Consequently, you’re at risk of destroying the whole system. Moreover, Windows has a bigger chance of being attacked, because Microsoft has a better brand and more hackers willing to break it.  On the other hand, the team protects the system and makes it hard for others to corrupt files. You don’t have access to the source code, so you will report issues and wait for them to get fixed.

What dashboard will be familiar?

Developers are comfortable with Windows, because they worked in the same software from a young age. On the other hand, many IT professionals like open-source platforms more. This choice depends mostly on preferences, since there’s no perfect solution for all companies. You should also consider the control panel. Linux works best with cPanel, while Windows users will have Plesk as an alternative. Both of them have great characteristics and provide integration of third-party softwares, so the final answer it’s up to you.