Ubuntu as Server: What the Linux operating system can score with

What are the technical aspects that make Ubuntu Server stand out?

As a powerful, stable, and secure open-source operating system, Ubuntu excels with its good scalability, effective network storage and automation options, and high user-friendliness, providing an excellent platform for a variety of server applications.

• High Performance and Stability

Ubuntu Servers are known for their high performance and stability, even under demanding workloads, making them the preferred choice for many data-intensive and critical business applications. Efficient use of system resources allows them to run just as effectively on individual servers as on complex, distributed system landscapes, seamlessly integrating into various IT environments. Furthermore, the proven stability of Ubuntu Server ensures that downtime is minimised, crucial for continuous operations and long-term reliability.

• Security

Ubuntu Server offers robust security features, including a strong firewall and Mandatory Access Control with AppArmor. It also provides regular security updates and patches to ensure the system is well-protected against any current threats.

• Scalability

Ubuntu Server can easily adapt to various requirements, meaning they can grow with users' needs. They are also well-suited for Virtual Private Server (VPS) hosting and Cloud Computing thanks to deep technical integration. Additionally, they support container technologies like Docker and Kubernetes.

• Network Storage Support

Ubuntu Server provides support for a wide range of network storage solutions such as NAS (Network Attached Storage) and SAN (Storage Area Network), enabling flexible and efficient data storage that seamlessly integrates into existing infrastructures. They also support distributed file systems like Ceph and GlusterFS, making them ideal for applications requiring high availability and fault tolerance, such as cloud computing and big data applications.

• Automation

The tools Juju and MAAS enable Ubuntu Server to automate operations and scale applications extensively, saving time and resources while significantly simplifying the management of even the most complex IT environments. Furthermore, these tools contribute to standardising and streamlining IT processes, reducing error rates and promoting collaboration and coordination within the IT team.

These technical aspects, combined with the active community and commitment to open-source principles, make Ubuntu Server a strong choice for a variety of server applications.

Find suitable offers for Ubuntu VPS hosting or Ubuntu Dedicated Server as well as Ubuntu Cloud Server in comparison

Ubuntu Community and Pro Support

Both the free Ubuntu Community and the paid Pro Support are key components that contribute to the strength and popularity of Ubuntu as a server operating system.

As an open-source project, Ubuntu relies not only on the developments of Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, but also on a global community of developers, users, and enthusiasts. This fosters innovation and quick responsiveness to emerging technology trends or issues. The Ubuntu Community is active in forums and on developer platforms like GitHub, providing extensive resources, support, and solutions for technical challenges.

At the same time, Canonical offers professional support services for businesses using Ubuntu in their IT infrastructure. These include technical support, training, consultancy, and tailored solutions. Companies can choose from various support packages, which may include 24/7 phone and web support and access to the system management tool Ubuntu Landscape or Canonical's Systems Management tools.

Together, the combination of an active, dedicated community and professional support services creates a dynamic environment that helps users maximise the full potential of Ubuntu as a server operating system. Pro Support and community engagement are key factors that set Ubuntu apart from other server operating systems.

Ubuntu Versions and Lifecycle

Version control and the lifecycle of Ubuntu are additional aspects that contribute to the attractiveness of Ubuntu as a server operating system.

• Canonical releases a new version of Ubuntu every six months, in April and October. These versions receive updates for nine months, including security updates and bug fixes.

• Every two years, in April, Canonical releases a Long-Term Support (LTS) version. LTS versions receive support and updates for five years, ensuring users that their servers remain secure and up to date. Companies and other organisations relying on stable and well-supported software tend to prefer LTS versions.

• In addition to the standard five-year support, Canonical also offers Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) for its LTS versions on a paid basis. With ESM, users receive an additional five years of security updates, extending the lifespan of an LTS version to a total of ten years.

This clear and forward-looking version control and the long lifecycle of Ubuntu allow users to effectively plan their IT strategies and ensure their systems are always up to date and secure. This reliability is crucial for many users opting for Ubuntu as a server.

What weaknesses does Ubuntu have as a server operating system?

While Ubuntu has many strengths as a server operating system, there are also some weaknesses to consider:

• Complexity: Despite its user-friendliness, Ubuntu, like many other Linux distributions, can be complex and intimidating for beginners, especially when used at the server level. There may be a steep learning curve, particularly for those with no experience with Linux command lines.

• Non-native support for some software: While Ubuntu supports a wide range of applications, there are certain specialised or proprietary software, especially some enterprise applications, that run better natively on Windows or may even be exclusively available for Windows.

• Hardware compatibility: While Ubuntu is compatible with a wide range of hardware, there are certain specialised hardware or newer, less common hardware components for which support may be limited or non-existent.

• Support: Although there is an active community and professional support options available, the support can vary depending on the nature of the issue. Sometimes it can be challenging to find specific solutions for rare or very specific problems.

Despite these weaknesses, the advantages of Ubuntu as a server operating system outweigh them for many users. As always, it is important to carefully weigh the potential disadvantages against the benefits depending on the individual application area.

Ubuntu Compared to Other Server Operating Systems

When choosing the right server operating system, it is important to consider the differences and individual characteristics of the respective alternatives:

Ubuntu vs Debian

Ubuntu itself is based on Debian but adds many of its own improvements and customizations. While Debian is known for its consistency, reliability, and extensive software library, Ubuntu tends to be more user-friendly, with more frequent release cycles and the option of professional support from Canonical. Debian is often preferred as a server operating system for its pure open-source principles and proven stability, while Ubuntu can score points with its user-friendly features and professional support.

Learn more about the differences between Ubuntu vs. Debian

Ubuntu vs Windows Server

As an open-source solution, Ubuntu offers high customizability and no licensing costs, making it a cost-effective option. On the other hand, Windows Server provides deep integration with other Microsoft products, a user-friendly interface, and extensive support for proprietary applications. Additionally, Windows Server may be more appealing to users familiar with the Windows environment.

Overall, the choice of server operating system depends heavily on specific requirements and context. However, Ubuntu stands out for its stability, high user-friendliness, and extensive support options.

For more information on the differences between various Linux distributions, check out the article: Best Linux for Servers: Which Distributions Are Suitable?

When Should an Ubuntu Server Be Preferred?

As an open-source operating system, Ubuntu does not incur any licensing costs, making it a cost-effective choice, especially for start-ups and smaller companies with limited budgets. For organisations heavily reliant on open-source tools, Ubuntu can provide a natural and effective platform.

Ubuntu is highly customisable and has heavily invested in integration with modern cloud platforms and containerisation technologies in recent years. Companies that heavily rely on these technologies and value high flexibility can benefit from using Ubuntu.

With its active community and the support options available from Canonical, Ubuntu can also be attractive as a server operating system for companies that value extensive support options.

Our article is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from external sources.

Sources & further links on the topic:

https://ubuntu.com/ (Official website of Ubuntu)

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