Linux VPS vs Windows VPS: Which is the Best OS for VPS?

Digital advancement has made it critical for businesses to adopt newer technologies and change the ways of doing business. The changing business models and revenue streams have forced organization’s to create websites for being more accessible to the customers. However, not all companies are aware of the technological aspects of hosting a website, bandwidth, security of the server, Operating System, scalability, etc. This leaves them vulnerable and could lead to wrong decisions that could have a negative impact on the organization.

One such critical factor that can impact your business is the Operating System (OS) you select for your VPS Hosting. While selecting the hosting server is daunting, the task does not end there. The Operating System that you select for your VPS will have an impact on your business from types of apps you could install to the ease of usage. When selecting the best OS for VPS, it is crucial to consider the needs and priorities of your business, along with your budget, technical capabilities, etc.

Top VPS OS Options Available

When it comes to VPS Operating Systems, there are two options available at your disposal – Windows and Linux.

1. Windows is offered by Microsoft and has superior compatibility with programs as well as applications offered by Microsoft. Windows OS for VPS is developed by the technical team of Microsoft, and using it would not require a great deal of technical knowledge. It is also comparatively easier to manage a Windows server environment.
2. On the other hand, Linux is an open-source platform that comes with a range of options that you could select. Being open-source, these Operating Systems are practically free, with the enterprise versions still being cheaper than the Windows OS. Ubuntu and CentOS are two Linux-based OS for VPS, which are easier to use and ideal for first-time users. Options for more technologically sound users include Debian, Red Hat, Fedora, and OpenSUSE. Some of the Linux-based Operating Systems are:

• CentOS
• Debian
• Red Hat (RHEL)
• Fedora
• Ubuntu

Linux VPS vs Windows VPS

After understanding the wide range of VPS options available at your disposal, you must understand the key differences between the Windows and Linux based VPS Operating Systems.

1. Security

With the rising number of cyber-security breaches and DDoS attacks, it has become crucial to ensure that your VPS Operating System offers the best security. In terms of security, Linux is comparatively more secure due to its open-source and open-community.

2. Performance

Your users expect a rapid and reliable user experience when they visit your company website. This makes the performance of the Operating System of your VPS equally crucial for the success of your business.

Windows uses Graphical User Interface (GUI), making it more user-friendly. With the widespread use of Windows OS in personal computers and laptops, a general user is more adept at handling the easy-to-use interface of Windows.

3. Technical Support

Irrespective of the technical expertise of your team, at some point in time, you will need the technical assistance of the Operating System’s support teams. It could be for something as small as fixing a minor glitch, or it could be as serious as a hacking attempt. Microsoft is a paid service with high licensing fees. This ensures that there is a dedicated support team whose only duty is to help you solve your queries as soon as possible. Thus, Microsoft VPS OS will ensure better customer service.

4. Scalability

As your business grows, you will need a server OS that can equip you to handle increased traffic without compromising the performance. Irrespective of whether you are using Linux VPS or Windows VPS, you will be able to upgrade both of them.

5. Cost

Irrespective of the features, finally it comes down to the value each OS provides based on the cost involved. On the other hand, Microsoft products require you to purchase a license

So, opt for the Operating System that meets most of your organizational requirements and goals.