Difference Between Windows & Linux Servers & Which is good for you?
A range of servers is now-a-days available for a user’s selection and it is tricky to decide on which one to go for. Each of the servers available comes with distinct features.
Developers and professionals alike often contemplate over which server is better, Windows or Linux. Both servers have their own sets of pros and cons. The selection of the server should, hence, be based upon the nature of work that an enterprise conducts, and the degree of IT expertise that their professionals have.
Among both, Windows and Linux servers, some things are common. While being reliable and stable, both are able to handle business needs that are highly demanding. However, a few of the differences are prevalent among the two as well.
| Windows Server |
Linux Server |
| As a group of operating systems that Microsoft has designed, Windows server is made available to customers, but has some restrictions over its use. |
Linux server is a variant of Linux open-source OS. It is available for everyone and the restrictions are minimal in comparison. |
| Using the server, applications, software and features demands a higher price. |
Needs of business applications are met through low-cost or free server options. Server licensing does not exist. |
| Support is received through Microsoft’s technical support team. |
An active community of developers offers technical support. |
| Installation and management is quick and easy. |
Installation and management is time-consuming and difficult. |
| There’s a limited flexibility over what one can and cannot do over the server. |
Flexibility levels are relatively much higher, so the server can be customized for use based on users’ preferences. |
| Microsoft manages the security and hence the resolution of issues can take longer. |
A community of developers handles security updates and bugs, which can hence be resolved quickly. |
Benefits of Linux Server
Low-cost option
Linux servers are best placed to meet the high demands of business applications such as database management, web servers and network administration. The installation of the operating system is free, but the support services of the server come for a price. They too are, however, are priced less as compared to other server options.
Control and flexibility
Linux, being an open source code is available for all users to customize as they require. Linux servers render full control over the machine.
Security
Cyber security experts frequently have the opinion that Linux offers more resilience as compared what other operating systems generally do. In the case of linux, the community of developers frequently reviews the source code of the distro for ensuring that it is free from bugs. It is not just that the bugs are discovered quicker, but the community rolls out security updates by themselves without waiting for the manufacturer to fix it.
Stability
Most people perceive Linux to be a highly stable and reliable OS, which has lower risk of errors and crashing. Linux servers also have a better performance at simultaneously handling more processes. When user volumes are high, periodic reboots are not called for. IT professionals have come to find that linux servers facilitate a persistent high performance over networks.
Benefits of Windows Server
For years, Windows servers have been criticized for their security issues. Another common problem they are associated with was the limited integration among applications. But, Windows has now upgraded several among these issues.
Server installation is easy
Installation of the server is easy, which allows users to save time and money. People are reasonably more familiar with the Windows operating system. Distribution and implementation of computer resources is hence streamlined through the server. This acts as a time-saving feature for IT departments.
Managing is easy
Skill required for managing the Windows server is also lower. The need to come across custom solutions to problems is done away with. Cloud, services and common software offerings perform well along with the server.
Security
For fighting any attacks over the system such as viruses, added layers of security are available over the system. For reducing the risk of a compromised system, some features is available that allow people to have just as many administrative permissions as they require for a limited time.
Integration with cloud services
As a cloud computing server, Microsoft Azure enables businesses and people to build, run and manage application over an elaborate, global network. This includes public websites and internal email systems. Users can connect remotely over Azure. Over Azure, site recovery, storage and backup are provided at a minimum cost. A business is hence empowered to scale up for handling higher customer demands.
Conclusion
The most important difference between Linux and Windows server is the cost and distribution rights. Distributions for Linux servers are low cost or free, but, buying a version of Windows server for use is a paid service.
Then, a Linux server is free for distribution to anyone. Restrictions over its use are exceptionally low. But, the Windows server comes with distribution costs due to licensing requirements. There are also some restrictions over what people can and cannot do over the server.
In terms of flexibility, Linux servers are higher scorers because a user can customize the server in the exact way as he requires. But the installation and management calls for an additional expenditure of time and skill.
For numerous organizations, the key factors behind the selection of Windows server over the Linux server include its quick installation and the reliable and familiar interface. Nowadays Windows have come up with important upgrades as well, and the performance of cloud service integration and security systems is better. Within a simple, packaged solution, users access fine benefits through the Windows server.
In conclusion, it may not be right to say that one server is significantly better than the other. An enterprise should choose among the two servers, Windows and Linux based on their organizational requirements and degree of expertise.