Web Hosting Reviews & Ratings

April 06, 2010

Advantages of Linux Server Hosting

Linux server hosting and Windows server hosting are in constant head to head competition for overall best platform. Each offer their individual strengths and weaknesses. When first choosing a web hosting provider, there’s usually an option to upload the files to either a Linux or Windows server. This choice is based on individual customer need as they both are excellent solutions.

Advantages

Linux offers many advantages for utilizing its software as the server platform of choice. These advantages include:

• Open source software
• Linux conversion
• Economical
• Scripting language compatibility
• Database usage
• Security/Stability

Open Source Software

A key advantage of Linux over other server software is the open source platform. This simply means that there are no licensing fees associated with the software. Therefore, anyone can download the platform and use it on any server free of charge. Open source also means that users are adding to the code and improving the software constantly. This is a tremendous advantage over costly server software packages.

Linux Conversion

A nice feature is the ability to easily convert a Linux based website to a Windows website. If a user isn’t satisfied with the Linux hosting software, they have the option to upload the files to a Windows website with little hassle. Furthermore, the website can be effortlessly changed to accommodate shifting user requirements. This is perfect for expanding and growing websites.

Economical

Due to the fact that the Linux platform is free and open-source software, this makes it a popular choice. The only associated charge is for distribution enforced by the host or owner. This expense is much smaller than paying full price for other server software.

Scripting Language Compatibility

Linux is more compatible with scripting languages such as MySQL, Perl, and PHP than other hosting platforms. If these are a requirement for a website, Linux can accommodate. The compatibility is extremely reliable and efficient with little hassle.

Database Usage

Linux hosting offers numerous types of databases including the most popular, mSQL, MySQL, and PostgreSQL. These databases efficiently communicate with a website for fast data retrieval. Since these are built in relation to one another, they collectively work together to maximize performance with each other and the website.

Security/Stability

Linux is said to have better security and stability than other server platforms. Due to the open source software, there are fewer attacks on Linux software and it’s much more stable. As a result of the security and stability, Linux has become a popular choice for programmers and web professionals.

Linux is popular primarily due to its open-source code. This allows it to be economical, secure, and stable, which are all attributes that are appealing to those in the web development world. As Linux continues to expand and grow, it could become the server hosting platform of choice for these reasons.

Tags: Linux server hosting,  linux server,  Linux conversion,  linux,  windows server,  web hosting,  server platform,  open source software