Which web server solution comes out on top? Linux vs. Windows

Linux and Windows compete for dominance in the web hosting market – with Linux as the seasoned server veteran taking the lead. However, the choice between the two systems usually depends on the specific use case. We explain the most important differences between them.

Comparing Linux and Windows as web-hosting operating systems

In the field of web hosting, Linux is often considered the best operating system for web servers. Available as free software since 1992, the system’s modular structure allows for customization with the right expertise. Costs only arise if you use Linux distributions with a paid support package. With its reliability, stability, and efficiency, Linux has proven itself even in the most demanding web and mail server environments.

If you plan to use PHP, Perl, Python, Ruby, or MySQL, Linux is an excellent choice. If you are looking for ready-to-use website solutions, applications such as blogs, content management systems, or discussion forums, various open-source applications are available in the Linux hosting space, whereas software for Windows hosting often has to be paid for.

Since 1993, Microsoft has also been offering a server operating system with Windows Server. This is paid software, but it includes support and updates for the designated period. A major advantage that Windows hosting traditionally had over Linux was its support for the powerful ASP.NET framework. However, the latest version of ASP.NET is now also compatible with Linux.

However, applications like SharePoint or Exchange remain exclusive to Windows, significantly simplifying communication and collaborative project work. While there are open-source alternatives for Linux, they are less commonly used in corporate environments. The following table provides a brief comparison of the key features of both operating systems for web hosting:

The pros and cons of Linux as a web server operating system

Unlike Windows, Linux is built on the principle of simplicity. Every component—even devices and processes—is treated as a file, allowing modifications to the system kernel at any time. Numerous lightweight tools support system configuration and management, primarily through the command line, though GUIs are available for most applications if needed. While Linux offers greater flexibility, it also requires a higher level of user responsibility, which can be challenging for those without prior experience.

The table below outlines the strengths and limitations of Linux distributions as a server operating system:

The pros and cons of Windows as a web server operating system

The fact that Linux, unlike Windows, features a very complex structure is primarily because Microsoft, as a principle, has always striven to have a simple operating system. All programs are available in the form of intuitive, graphic user interfaces. This means that administration via the command line is not necessary, although technically it is still possible. Generally, users have single control over all the hardware resources, receive regular feedback from the system, and can also install software by themselves. However this hides a certain potential for errors; for example when system settings are changed or if potentially unsafe applications are downloaded and installed.

The following table contains the fundamental advantages and disadvantages of the Windows server:

Linux vs. Windows – a direct comparison

The preceding paragraphs have demonstrated the minor, but subtle differences, exhibited by Windows and Linux as server systems. Aside from technical and administrative criteria, it should also be mentioned that personal experience often plays a decisive role whether someone gets along with an operating system or not. Of course this also depends on the requirements that a user has for the software and why they are using it in the first place. While well-versed system administrators might value the freedoms that Linux offers, at the same time these will often not be relevant for more basic website operators looking to find an operating system that works for them. On the other hand, fans of the command line do not necessarily view Windows administration via GUI as completely superfluous, and something that just uses up resources and offers an attack point for malware.

Finally at this point we once more present the most important criteria for evaluating and comparing Windows and Linux:

Which solution will it be? Linux or Windows?

When configuring your server modules, choosing an operating system is unavoidable—yet many users make this decision based on incorrect assumptions. For example, it is often believed that the server system must match the platform used on their personal computer. In reality, the operating system on your own device is irrelevant, as administrators can manage the server remotely using management tools like Plesk, which are compatible with both Linux and Windows.

If cost is the deciding factor, it might seem that Linux, as an open-source software, is always the more affordable server solution. However, in practice, this is less relevant for large web applications: depending on the distribution, expenses may arise for typically costly support or for specialists with the necessary expertise.

One drawback of Windows, however, is its complex licensing model. In the Linux vs. Windows server debate, there is ultimately no clear winner, as both operating systems support different types of web projects. While Windows offers more advanced features for communication and workflow structuring, Linux has distinct advantages when running web applications such as content management systems.