This article provides you with information regarding the differences between choosing Linux or Windows Hosting.
In order to decide whether to go for Linux or Microsoft hosting you will have to identify what your website requirements are.
If you need to support Microsoft products such as ASP.net, ASP, MS Access, Microsoft SQL Server, or VBScript, then Windows hosting would be better.
Linux is generally a more popular option because of its affordability, stability, and many features. Linux supports PHP, Perl, MySQL, PostgreSQL, CGI Scripts with access via a control panel.
Both Linux and Windows servers are reliable, stable, and secure. Generally, however, more viruses are written to attack Windows servers than Linux servers.
If you need to host on a Windows Server ensure that your web hosting company continually upgrades their Windows and Linux servers with the latest fixes and patches available.
Two points to note:
- First, just because you use Microsoft Windows on your computer does NOT mean that you need to host on a Windows hosting package. Windows for your home computer is completely different from a Windows server.
- Secondly, even if you use Microsoft FrontPage or FrontPage extensions to design your website, you can still use either Linux or Windows hosting as long as your chosen package supports FrontPage.
Other Questions
Does it make a difference what type of computer I use?
- No. You can design your website on any type of computer you want. The important thing is what your web hosting account can support. So for example, if your computer has Windows you can still host your website on a Linux server. Even websites that are designed using Microsoft FrontPage using FrontPage extensions can be hosted on certain Linux Hosting options.
Will there be advertising such as banner ads or pop-ups on my website?
- No. You are paying for your own webspace and you are in complete control of what you put on your website. If you want to put ads on your site you can – but it is your choice completely.