Choosing The Proper Operating System

Do you prefer Windows or UNIX? Or even Linux? This is a question that troubles many webmasters. They have knowledge that selecting the right operating system will can have a significant effect on their business.

The Windows servers tend to integrate Microsoft programs such as FrontPage, Access and MS SQL used in back office operations. They also provide specific programs such as Active Server Pages (ASP), Visual Basic Scripts and Cold Fusion that make web hosting very easy.

Most importantly, Windows servers can be easily managed and multiplexed because of .NET technology. They can offer excellent levels of support, security and integration for the Microsoft family of products. Their special characteristics make them a good choice for both shared and dedicated hosting. Nonetheless, all these services come at a cost, which might be problematic for smaller businesses.

Similarly, the UNIX platform offers a large number of hosting solutions. Their most significant characteristic is that they can deal with large volumes of traffic, are robust and capable of hosting many sites at the same time. Further, they are very flexible and webmasters can customize their services in real time from any computer. Also, unlike Windows, UNIX system isn’t limited to special remote administration programs. Any computer connected to the Internet can gain access to a typical UNIX system without any special or costly software.

Many webmasters make UNIX servers their choice because of the server uptime. It is not that Windows servers don’t promise 99 per cent uptime. But to attain it the web host must be very capable and skilled in Microsoft systems. This won’t be a limitation in the case of UNIX servers.

For all the newcomers, selecting one among the many UNIX hosting plans, should be the best option. Nevertheless, all those who are comfortable with Windows applications such as FrontPage, Microsoft Access or MS SQL should prefer Windows. This will make integration easier. Thankfully, these days most hosting firms support MS FrontPage server extensions on both Windows and UNIX platforms.

Further, Linux, which is a variation of UNIX, is yet another option. This operating system has grown out of the free software movement and will provide facilities which are reasonably firm. It is also a lot less costly than Windows. Webmasters also find it a lot more easy to learn and adapt to Linux environments due to the Linux code being available online.

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