What is the Difference Between Linux Web Hosting and Windows Web Hosting?
When you want to launch a website online, you need to store it on a web server. You can buy a web server and house it on your premises or buy a web hosting service from a web host. There are various web hosting plans available, like Shared Hosting, Cloud Hosting, VPS Hosting, Dedicated Server Hosting, etc.
Traditionally, websites were simple and hosting requirements were basic. Hence, Dedicated Servers and Shared Hosting were the only two types of hosting services around. However, with time, as websites evolved, the hosting needs started becoming more complex. This led to an evolution in hosting services. Web hosts started offering plans with specific resources and operating systems to cater to the needs of different websites.
Talking about operating systems, Windows and Linux are two of the most commonly used ones. Today, we will be talking about Windows and Linux Shared Hosting plans and highlight the differences between the two.
When you buy a Shared Web Hosting service, multiple websites share a web server. Hence, the host can offer affordable hosting services while offering support for basic websites. Here is a quick comparison between Linux and Windows Shared Hosting in India.
Difference between Shared Linux and Windows Hosting
| Feature | Windows Shared Hosting | Shared Linux Hosting |
| Interaction with the OS | When you opt for a Windows Shared Hosting plan, you get a simple interface that allows you to directly interact with the operating system. This is usually a menu-based interface. | When you opt for Shared Linux Hosting with cPanel, the interaction with the OS is indirect (via the control panel). |
| Application compatibility | This is an important aspect of web hosting. Sites that already have applications/databases running on a particular operating system will need a web server that runs on that particular OS. However, if you haven’t started yet, then you can look at both operating systems and choose the one that is best suited to your needs. | |
| Ease of use | Setting up and managing a Windows server requires a system administrator. Hence, the common buyers of Windows Hosting plans are companies with dedicated technical resources. | As compared to Windows, Linux-based Hosting services are easier to use, making them ideal for new site owners. Hence, server configuration and management are easier with these plans. |
| The efficiency of the control panel | Plesk is the control panel offered with most Windows Hosting services. It offers a range of features to make site management easier. | When you buy Linux-based Hosting services, the control panel offered by most providers is cPanel. This is more popular than Plesk and offers benefits that make it easier for site owners to run and manage their websites. |
| Cost-efficiency | Most site owners turn to Shared Hosting services when the hosting requirements of their site are basic. Also, Shared Hosting services are low-cost, making them ideal for new businesses. If we compare Windows and Linux Shared Hosting plans, the latter are more cost-efficient since Linux is a free OS and has lower maintenance costs. | |
Summing Up
As you can see, there are some clear differences between Windows and Linux Web Hosting services. Both of these services have certain advantages and disadvantages. Hence, ensure that you assess your site’s hosting needs and choose the service that helps you create a memorable site experience. Good Luck!
If you are a Web Hosting Reseller and are confused between Linux and Windows Reseller Hosting plans, then the following video will help you make a definite choice –