Web Hosting Platforms Compared

The operating system is the core of a computer. It enables the operation of software and hardware and ensures an effective interaction between the two components. While in the personal computer (PC) sector for private use there are only a few different systems to choose from, the selection for server systems is much more extensive. This article highlights the advantages and disadvantages of the most commonly used server operating systems: Windows, Unix, and Linux.

Windows as a Hosting Platform

Microsoft Windows is particularly popular in the web hosting sector because it offers a variety of features and a very user-friendly interface. Unlike older systems, almost every important task can now be performed using simple "point-and-click" controls, rather than having to type cumbersome DOS commands. Windows is usually preferred as a hosting platform when ASP (Active Server Pages) technology, MS SQL databases, or .NET frameworks are required.

• Advantages: Administering a Windows server is much easier than with other operating systems. The platform is also supported by almost all software providers, as it is the leading system especially in the PC sector.

• Disadvantages: The versions of the Windows Server operating system are very expensive. Licences are often available for several hundred pounds. These costs are usually added to the price of web hosting. While current Windows versions benefit from years of system improvements, older versions are still very vulnerable to security flaws and threats.

Unix as a Hosting Platform

Unix is considered by many as the foundation of all operating systems. The system has been used as a web hosting platform in the server sector for several decades. Known for its stability and reliability, it is mainly used in large and particularly complex computer systems. The software usually comes with special server hardware from reputable manufacturers such as IBM, HP, or Sun Microsystems. These servers are very powerful but also very expensive. It is not uncommon to invest several thousand pounds in a system. As an alternative for smaller providers, FreeBSD, a free, similar platform that also runs on cheaper hardware, can be used.

• Advantages: The Unix platform offers unique stability and reliability. It forms the basis of a rock-solid server that typically runs without issues for years and does not require frequent restarts. Unix was designed with enhanced security features, making it less vulnerable to security flaws and threats.

• Disadvantages: A Unix web hosting platform can be a very costly option. Additionally, the system is significantly more complex and requires a higher level of effort in management and administration compared to a Windows server.

Linux as a Hosting Platform

The Linux operating system has emerged as the leading force in web hosting platforms. While sharing many characteristics with Unix, Linux is much more cost-effective as it is released as open-source software. Linux comes in various distributions and is compatible with a variety of other important open-source technologies such as PHP scripting languages or MySQL databases.

• Advantages: Like a Unix platform, a Linux server offers excellent stability and performance for both large and small server environments. While not entirely free, operating Linux is always more cost-effective than comparable solutions with Windows or Unix. Due to its widespread use, Linux can tap into a vast community of users and software developers who support the platform.

• Disadvantages: Similar to Unix, Linux requires specific expertise for system management and administration. All commands need to be entered manually through the command line interface. Although Linux is becoming more mainstream, significantly fewer software providers support the platform compared to Windows, for example.