There are two choices when considering hosts. The host site will either based around a Linux operating system or a Windows one. Linux has been around since 1991. There are a few differences, the cost being one of them. Linux is significantly cheaper than Windows and a majority of people will go for the Linux option for the following reasons.
Small businesses prefer the Linux based hosting namely because of the cost and also because Linux has an open software policy. This means that companies or individuals can download Linux software with no extra cost, it is free. If a customer feels that a Windows based host is required they will have to pay out, as the host will have to buy the windows server. Also, any extra features that are required by the customer will also have to be bought, thus pushing the cost up further.
“…Many people recognize Linux as the best type of web hosting solution around, because of the added advantages of this solutions, which provide reliability, security, functionality, and affordability all in the one package…”
Be aware that the stability of the service offered by Linux software is not affected by the fact that the source code is free. If a customer owns a website on Linux they will have much higher up-time. Linux is easy to understand and very user friendly. The customer is able to use a variety of file types, including cgi, html, php, asp plus many more.
Linux can afford to offer the software at no cost and with a few extra features as well. All the programming language and databases are freely available. The cost is passed onto their customers. This enables them to sell their products at a competitively low price due to saving money on the cost of their Linux based web site.
Linux is a common choice for people who are studying and who work with web design. This is because it contains a variety of configuration and customization options. Another important advantage is that it has more security features than a Windows based host will include .Linux has built up a good reputation for their security methods and ability to run for a long length of time without the customer experiencing any technical difficulties. Other systems have a habit of requiring a reboot or refresh in order to keep them functioning.
With Linux it is relativity easy to move hosts. The Linux web server can be hosted by a Windows web server but a Windows server cannot be hosted by Linux. This is important for businesses who want their site to grow. This means more numbers and additional files and updates to the site. If the customer is using a Linux based site then they should not come across any problems with expanding their website.
Windows is the more expensive choice because windows based servers are quite expensive to buy. Like the Linux system, Windows is easy to use and would be a good choice for small sites that do not need to grow. Windows is a property of Microsoft. This is also something to consider because if the majority of work is based on Microsoft applications then it is likely it will not be compatible with a Linux server. The Windows option would be a more ideal in this case.
Both have a high level of performance and both have advantages and disadvantages. If the company is new to producing a web site and has no experience then Linux will probably be the best choice as long as there is no requirement for Microsoft application.