What is the Difference Between Linux and Windows Web Hosting?

Business owners new to the world of web hosting can often be overwhelmed about the number of hosting choices on the market, all offering a range of different plans and services. One of the most confusing crossroads for a learning webmaster is the decision to go with a Linux or Windows-based hosting provider because of the starkly divergent history of the two operating systems.

While some web hosting service providers will preach the virtues of the operating system they themselves employ in an effort to sway uninformed consumers, the fact is that there is very little functional difference between them in the modern day thanks to advances in programming and digital infrastructure.

Linux and Windows-based hosting solutions may use differing security mechanisms, programming protocols and other superficial processes, but the result is effectively the same, meaning that advantages between providers are to be found by examining other characteristics of their service.

Compatibility

While the basic utilities that Linux and Windows-based hosting providers deliver may be similar, the benefit of their implementation may vary based on the situation of the individual webmaster. For example, if the in-house programmers who are custom-building a company’s web pages are more proficient in one language than the other, it is always best to let compatibility serve as a tiebreaker.

Services

The services that a hosting provider offers are also an important part of their suitability to work with a given business. Quality hosting services provide access to powerful site building and control panel tools to allow company personnel to build and edit web pages at a moment’s notice, and these tools must be easy to use to accommodate individuals without extensive technical knowledge.

A quality hosting provider also gives company leaders access to advanced analytics such as traffic volume, source, visitor engagement level and most popular site content, delivering insights about the promotional techniques that work best. Another essential tool for a reputable hosting service to offer is 24/7 technical support so any issued that arise can be eliminated as soon as offered, minimizing downtime and optimizing site reliability. You can read more here at iiNet to gain a better understanding of the benefits of professional web hosting today.

In years past, a web hosting service provider’s use of Linux or Windows was a severe impediment if not an absolute deal-breaker for companies whose computers use the competing operating system. Thankfully, the technology of the modern marketplace serves to make the distinction nearly irrelevant, meaning the choice of provider rests on quality of service rather than preferred programming language.