The Difference between Linux and Windows Hosting
When you are looking for a web hosting provider, one of the first things that you often have to consider is what operating system the server will run - Linux or Windows.
Linux and Windows are two different types of operating systems. Compare to Windows, Linux is the most famous and prevalent operating system for web servers. Since Linux-based hosting is the preferred choice by many, it has more of the features web designers expect. So unless you have websites which need specific Windows application, Linux is the answer to all your needs.
What is Linux Web Hosting?
Linux is an open source operating system used by many. If you require to use PHP, Perl, Wordpress, Joomla, Wiki or MySQL then Linux is the answer your requirements. Although PHP, Perl and MySQL can also run on Windows, things don't work quite the same as they do on a Linux based operating system.
If you are seeking for an operating system that can help you to create a simple website, a blog or to sell something, Linux-based hosting is all you need.
What is Windows Web Hosting?
If you prefer to use ASP, ASP.NET, Microsoft SQL Server or MSSQL then Windows is the platform that you need. Windows hosting is required if you are implementing an Access Database.
MySQL is the database used on Linux and windows, but it is more associated with Linux servers and Windows uses Microsoft product MS Access and Microsoft.
Windows web hosting is more convenient if you need to use Windows-specific web technologies.
Below is a basic comparison between Windows and Linux Hosting. The table shows the capabilities of Windows and Linux hosting to support scripting languages.
Script Language |
Windows |
Linux |
FTP Access |
Yes |
Yes |
Telnet/SSH Access |
Limited |
Yes |
HTML & Java Script |
Yes |
Yes |
Frontpage Extensions |
Yes |
Yes |
CGI/Perl |
Limited |
Yes |
ASP |
Yes |
Limited |
PHP |
Limited |
Yes |
Coldfusion |
Yes |
Yes |
Access Database |
Yes |
No |
MySQL Database |
Yes |
Yes |
Is There Any Difference to the End User Browsing Your Site?
No. It does not matter whether you use Windows or Linux as your platform. Your website visitor will not be able to tell the difference between the two operating systems. They will appear the same no matter which operating system you decide to use.
Should you have a question or two regarding to Linux or Windows hosting, give us a call at +603 - 7831 3361 or email us away at [email protected] . We will gladly help you out to determine which platform is suitable for your needs.
