On the path of starting an online business, after registering a domain, you will need a suitable space to host your site. If your choice is a virtual server among the types of web hosting services, the first question that arises for you is, which type of server is the most suitable for you? Windows or Linux virtual server?

Therefore, in this article, we are going to state 8 important differences between Windows and Linux virtual servers and explain the features of each of them completely. Also, at the end, we will provide practical tips for choosing the best virtual server. So be sure to stay with us until the end of this article.

What is VPS or virtual server?

The word VPS is an abbreviation of Virtual Private Server.

To understand the concept of a virtual server, let’s first have a brief overview of the definition of a server:

 The server is a powerful computer where all the files and information related to your website are uploaded.

Whenever someone enters your domain address in the web browser, this powerful computer (the same server) sends the necessary information to the browser and thus, your site is displayed to users.

Definition of virtual server

In the virtual server, virtualization technology is used. You may ask, what does virtualization technology mean?

Virtualization refers to creating a virtual version (instead of a real version) of something; In virtual servers, instead of having several independent hardware dedicated to each server, a powerful hardware is simulated to several servers using software.

In this way, on one hardware (or dedicated physical server), you have several separate servers, with independent operating systems and your own resources (CPU, RAM and other data).

Windows virtual server

What is a Windows virtual server? If your site is written in Microsoft languages ​​(such as ASP.NET), you will need a Windows server. A Windows virtual server can be managed by a Windows operating system over the web (such as RDP).

Linux virtual server

A VPS that has Linux as its operating system is called a Linux virtual server. If your site is written in PHP, you will need a Linux server or host. Considering that Linux is an open source operating system, you will be able to install many programs and software.

Needless to say, there are various Linux distributions (such as Ubuntu, CentOs and Mint) that you can install any one you want based on your technical knowledge and experience.

8 important differences between Windows and Linux virtual servers

Although the basic functions of Windows and Linux virtual servers are similar in general, there are also important differences between the two that cannot be ignored; Because knowing these differences will help you to experience a more satisfactory result by choosing the best virtual server. In the following, we will examine the most important differences between these two virtual servers, but before that, if you are not yet familiar with the concepts related to virtual servers, be sure to read the article “What is a virtual server (VPS)?” read the

1. Performance difference in Windows and Linux virtual server

Windows Virtual Server: Since Windows virtual servers use a graphical user interface (GUI), they will require more resources if not properly optimized. Also, this type of server needs a reboot after every partial patch, driver update or software update.

Linux virtual server: In general, a Linux virtual server needs less resources compared to a Windows virtual server. This type of server does not request a reboot when the load on the system is high. Linux is designed exclusively for use with SSH (a protocol designed to establish a secure connection between a user and a server). The management of this type of virtual server is also done through the command line.

2. Server security

Windows virtual server: You need relatively high technical knowledge to protect data and increase security in Windows virtual server. Proper installation and proper settings, you can have a secure Windows VPS.

Linux virtual server: By purchasing a Linux virtual server, you will have a more secure server; Because in this type of server, only the server administrators can access and edit its codes.

3. Compatibility with different software

Windows virtual server: Windows virtual server is compatible with special Windows software. Among these software, we can mention ASP Classic, ASP.net, MySQL, C#, VB Development and MS Access.

Linux Virtual Server: On the other hand, Linux VPS is compatible with open source software. These softwares include FrontPage, SSH, CGI, ROR, Java, Python and PHP/Perl Extensions.

4. Access to the server

Windows virtual server: In Windows VPS, access to files is through FTP.

Linux virtual server: In Linux VPS, it is also possible to access files through FTP. The main difference between this type of virtual server and the Windows virtual server is that SSH and Telnet access is available exclusively in Linux VPS. This important difference has made this type of server more popular among developers.

5. control panel

Windows virtual server: Plesk control panel is generally used in Windows virtual server, which has a relatively good user interface.

Linux virtual server: cPanel or WHM control panels are also used in Linux virtual servers, which cPanel is very popular.

6. support services

Windows Virtual Server: Windows VPS support is provided by Microsoft’s IT support team.

Linux virtual server: Linux VPS support is provided by open source communities; For this reason, it can be said that the support of this type of server is not very reliable. As a result, if you use this type of server, it is better to get support from the experts of your hosting company.

7. Interface

Windows virtual server: this type of server has a graphical user interface, and its management is easier and more attractive, and many users prefer the Windows user interface.

Linux Virtual Server: Linux VPS has cPanel control panel. cPanel is one of the most convenient tools for hosting management. This type of tool also helps to manage FTP and SSH more easily.

8. Cost

Windows virtual server: As you know, the Windows operating system is owned by Microsoft; Therefore, users must also pay the license fee to use it. This cost is often included in the overall price of the Windows virtual server and will increase the cost relatively sharply.

Linux virtual server: Since Linux is an open source operating system, the cost of its virtual server is much lower and most of them are free.

Which virtual server is more suitable for you?

After explaining the differences between Windows and Linux virtual servers, we will now answer the question of which type of virtual server is better for you. At first, we must say that Windows and Linux operating systems are both powerful platforms and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is not possible to say which virtual server is better in general and absolute.

In fact, you should choose the best server according to these factors by considering important factors such as the software environment, how to manage the server, budget and cost, work process, technical knowledge, etc. Below are some practical tips to choose the best virtual server:

• If your software runs on Ruby, Python, PHP and Perl, it is better to purchase a Linux virtual server.
• If your codes are written under ASP.net, Windows virtual server is a better choice for you.
• If you want to run Nginx, Apache and Litespeed web services, choose a Linux virtual server.
• If you are looking for a more convenient and attractive user interface, buy a Windows virtual server.
• If you don’t want to pay a lot of money for buying a server and related licenses, Linux virtual server is definitely the best choice for you.