The Best Web Hosting Control Panels in UK

Control panels are used for managing web hosting packages and server settings administration. But which of the numerous admin tools is the best software for server management? Here in the web hosting Control Panel Comparison, we take a closer look at the most popular solutions.

With the right tool, every task can be done more easily. The same goes for managing a web hosting package on a server or reseller account. The term web hosting control panel refers to a web-based interface used for central management of web hosting packages.

Those running a single website on a web space package will not think much about it. Here, the hosting provider dictates the management interface to its customers. However, it's different when multiple websites from different customers need to be managed on a dedicated server. Especially providers of web services like web designers, web developers, or SEO agencies often operate and administer their clients' web presences themselves. In addition to choosing the right hardware, a choice must also be made regarding the appropriate management interface.

Basically:

On web hosting packages and reseller packages, the web hosting control panel is already pre-installed by the host, so before choosing a provider, one should inquire about the desired system. A change is not possible afterwards.

On your own VPS Hosting or Dedicated Server, however, the customer is free to decide which admin tools to use to manage the server.

Function of Control Panels for Server Management

As a central point for managing various user accounts and domains, web hosting control panels offer numerous advantages to the system administrator. After the initial setup, much time and effort are saved in future management. The simple graphical user interface of the management program allows settings to be easily made through the interface. Extensive expert knowledge and cumbersome work directly in the server's operating system are no longer necessary.

A web hosting control panel consists of multiple management levels, where settings for the lower levels are made in the higher levels. The administrator is the top level, where reseller accounts can be created, which in turn can be assigned individual customer accounts and domains.

Configuration options include the following functions:

• Web Hosting Management
  Individual web hosting packages can be customized according to specific requirements. This includes defining the available storage space, usable databases, or the maximum number of FTP accesses or email accounts. Users can then manage their web hosting within the defined parameters independently.
• Domain Management
  Individual accounts can be assigned domains. These can then be configured by the customer themselves. This includes tasks such as creating subdomains and setting up redirects to another URL or a specific directory on the web hosting space.
• Administrative Management
  Special functions are only available to administrators. Typical functions include monitoring bandwidth and traffic usage, as well as importing and exporting entire accounts for backup purposes.

What Web Hosting Control Panels are Available?

In the realm of web hosting control panels, there are now numerous providers offering such applications. Overall, all software solutions offer similar functions and are equally suitable for management. Some software providers charge fees for their web hosting control panel, while others can be used for free as open-source projects. If the software is offered directly by the host, the fee is already included in the monthly hosting price.

The two most well-known and widely used paid web hosting control panels are Plesk and cPanel.

The high dominance of these two solutions can also be seen when looking at the market share distribution in the realm of admin tools:

Another paid alternative to the international market leaders Plesk and cPanel is the popular in Germany LiveConfig.

As free open-source alternatives, one can especially rely on ISPConfig, Webmin, or Froxlor.

Here is an overview of the most commonly used admin tools:

Plesk

Plesk is proprietary software developed and maintained by Plesk International GmbH. There are various tariff options available. Monthly costs depend on the number of domains and web hosting accounts to be managed, starting at around 15 USD per month. Plesk can be used on both Windows-based systems and on Linux and Unix, making it one of the most popular cPanel alternatives. The control panel is known for its extensive range of features. In addition to the main functions for server management and web hosting administration, the functionality can be expanded as needed through a modular extension system. However, the more modules used, the higher the resource requirements of the application. Thanks to its modular extension system, Plesk is not only interesting for individual users but can also be used by web hosts and infrastructure providers due to its extensive functionality.

cPanel

cPanel is proprietary software developed and maintained by cPanel LLC. Depending on whether the software is used on a Virtual Private Server or Dedicated Server, different licensing fees starting from around $12 per month apply. Attractive multi-license discounts are offered to corporate customers. cPanel can only run on Linux and is one of the most popular Plesk alternatives. A unique feature of cPanel is its division into two separate applications. The actual cPanel Control Panel allows for all server settings to be made at the domain level. On the other hand, the WHM Web Hosting Manager, operating one system level higher, can be used to manage user accounts and create individual web space packages. Unlike alternative software solutions, cPanel is deeply embedded in the system and can only be removed by completely reinstalling the system. With its extensive range of functions and deep integration, cPanel is primarily aimed at web hosting providers managing numerous customer accounts. However, the software is also appealing to individual users due to its user-friendly interface.

LiveConfig

LiveConfig is proprietary software developed by the German company Keppler IT GmbH. Different licensing versions are offered targeting end customers, resellers, and web hosting service providers. The software can be used starting from approximately £3 per month. LiveConfig requires a Unix or Linux-based operating system. The control panel focuses on core functions for server administration and web hosting package configuration. Additional features commonly found in other control panels in the comparison are not present here. However, this fact ensures that the software application can be particularly lean, secure, and resource-efficient. Due to its resource-saving properties, LiveConfig is especially interesting for individual users with limited server resources. It is also a great choice for businesses seeking a simple, lean, and secure software solution.

ISPConfig

ISPConfig is an open-source software developed and maintained by ISPConfig UG (limited liability). Its use is generally completely free of charge. However, the developer offers paid add-on modules that expand the functionality of the application in various areas. Using ISPConfig requires a Linux operating system. ISPConfig is distinguished mainly by its open-source code. All the essential main functions needed for managing server functions and configuring web hosting packages are freely available to everyone. Through paid add-on modules, the control panel can be individually expanded in various areas if needed. ISPConfig, as open-source software, is particularly interesting for users with limited budgets or technically savvy enthusiasts. However, its functionality is also sufficient for efficiently and, above all, cost-effectively managing multiple servers of a company.

Froxlor

Froxlor is an open-source software developed and maintained by the dedicated Froxlor community. The software is free and released under the GPL license, making it a cost-effective alternative to proprietary solutions like cPanel or Plesk. Froxlor is compatible with Linux and Unix systems and is excellent for web hosting providers and administrators looking for an efficient and flexible server management solution. One of Froxlor's notable features is its modular structure and adaptability. The software offers a user-friendly interface for managing domains, email accounts, databases, and other server resources. By separating customer, reseller, and administrator levels, Froxlor allows precise control over respective responsibilities and resources. Froxlor is primarily targeted at web hosting providers and server administrators seeking a free yet powerful solution for managing their infrastructure. With its open architecture and active community, Froxlor is also appealing to individual users and developers looking to make their own customizations and extensions.

Webmin

Webmin is a versatile, web-based open-source software developed and maintained by Jamie Cameron and a dedicated community. The software is free and released under the BSD license, making it an attractive alternative to paid solutions like cPanel or Plesk. Webmin is compatible with Linux, Unix, and Windows systems, providing a comprehensive solution for administrators looking to effectively manage their server resources. One of Webmin's highlights is its modular architecture and user-friendly interface, allowing for easy and intuitive management of system settings, user accounts, services, and other server components. With support for a variety of standard server services, Webmin enables seamless integration into existing infrastructures. Primarily targeting server administrators and IT professionals seeking a free yet powerful solution to manage their server environments, Webmin is also appealing to individual users and developers interested in creating their own modules and customizations.

KeyHelp

KeyHelp is a user-friendly server management software developed by the Thuringian hosting provider Keyweb and made available to the public for free. To use KeyHelp, a Linux operating system (Ubuntu LTS/Debian) is required. KeyHelp stands out for its comprehensive basic functions necessary for managing server services and configuring web hosting packages. The software is freely accessible to everyone and provides an understandable and reliable alternative to other solutions. For users seeking advanced features, KeyHelp also offers a paid Pro version that expands the application's functionality in various areas. KeyHelp is suitable for users with different budgets and technical knowledge, as it is easily accessible and usable for both beginners and experienced professionals. The functionality of KeyHelp is sufficient to efficiently and cost-effectively manage both individual servers and multiple servers of a company, with continuous development and close collaboration with the community ensuring that KeyHelp remains a powerful and adaptable server management tool.

CloudPanel

The CloudPanel is a powerful and user-friendly control panel specifically designed for managing cloud servers. The software is provided for free by the German developer MGT-COMMERCE GmbH from Berlin. The control panel is known for its ease of use, high scalability, and comprehensive features that allow seamless integration of multiple web projects on one's cloud infrastructure. Additionally, CloudPanel offers numerous security features such as access protection and firewall management to ensure infrastructure security. The resource-efficient architecture and the ability to execute automated processes make CloudPanel an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes looking to efficiently and securely manage their cloud infrastructure.

The best Control Panels for server management compared

The following table provides an overview of the key features and characteristics of the control panels introduced here. This allows for a practical comparison of the differences between the individual applications at a glance.

Conclusion: The Best Control Panel for Server Management

In conclusion, it can be said that there is no blanket statement about which is the best control panel for managing server settings and configuring web hosting packages. All applications on the market have their justification and can reliably fulfill the tasks assigned to a control panel. Rather, individual requirements and personal preferences play an important role in deciding on a particular solution.

If the control panel is not specified by the web hosting provider, it is advisable to test several options to find out which software works best for you.

Find web hosting with the popular Plesk Control Panel: