Linux VPS vs Windows VPS – Which One is Right for You?

Hosting a website has become more than a necessity these days. Your content requires the right medium to reach the target audience, and it should reach them on demand. Hence, choosing the right hosting platform is a critical step, that will take you closer to your website’s success.

Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a system of making guest machines in the host system and allocating the resources of the host for optimal use. VPS offers flexibility to its users in terms of operating systems. It comes in two types: Windows VPS and Linux VPS. Both the operating systems have their pros and cons, and there are some strong opinions concerning the usability and productivity of these two operating systems.

But the question here is, which is the right one for you? Which one would maximise or provide superior performance? 

Windows VPS vs Linux VPS

Here are some of the factors, basis which you can decide the right OS for you.

Cost

One thing that matters the most is feasible pricing or affordability.

Linux is an open-source platform and easily available, but it’s a technically strong operating system that works for commands. So, you might need some experts to handle the Linux VPS. 

Windows, on the other hand, is a user-friendly OS and might not require a tech geek to handle it. But windows licenses will surely need you to pay the price for all-round security and regular updates.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another important aspect while choosing your hosting OS – Windows or Linux. If you are working with PHP, MySQL, Ruby, or Pearl, Linux VPS is your go-to option. On the other hand, if you work with a lot of Microsoft-based products like ASP.net, SQL server, then choose the Windows hosting. 

Usability

Linux OS has an easy-to-use interface that works on the command line. If you are comfortable and familiar with the command line interface or can hire an expert, you can choose Linux.

Windows, on the other hand, is much more intuitive and has a user-friendly UI. So, do not worry if you don’t have hands-on IT understanding, Windows is here for you. 

Performance

Linux VPS works on the command line, and it is not only about programming or carrying out system tasks but for everything. Plus, not all the installation requires a reboot. This way, it does not hog the resources beyond the required use and thus helps the server to perform better. 

Windows VPS, on the other hand, can be a little resource hungry, since every small patch or big update requires a reboot for them to install on the system. Therefore, if your Windows VPS is not optimised properly, you are sure to lose the processing power that can be used for something critical.

Security

Linux and Windows VPS servers, with respect to security, do not stand far away from each other. Linux servers do not provide edit access to anyone else other than the administrators themselves. Having said that, the overall installation and set up of the operating system also matters. 

Windows VPS requires the right selection of tools, so vulnerabilities do not compromise it.

Bottom Line

Linux VPS Server and Windows VPS Server have a close competition when it comes to performance and security. But Linux being a command-line UI, can function smoothly even with a relatively low specification. The winner of this discussion cannot be one, as this is a subjective choice. For people looking for UI friendly characteristics, Windows VPS is the option. For someone looking for a command-line based operating system, Linux VPS earns the top spot. So, figure out your requirements according to your server needs and choose the right VPS server.