Even though the majority of users do know that the ultimate choice lies between Windows and Unix/Linux, it is not easy to find out the precise operating system for web hosting. The concept is also quite tricky since the operating system one selects does make a big difference in his/her business plans as the website grows.
As far as Windows-based web hosts are concerned, Windows-based servers make use of programs like Microsoft Access and MS SQL for “back-end” operations. Bear in mind that Microsoft technology for instance ASP (Active Server Pages) and VBScript do also deal with scripting. Apart from this, Windows-based servers can be managed easily and also be multiplexed by means of using .NET technology. These do proffer outstanding support along with security and integration for Microsoft products.
For all these reasons, especially in case of either shared or dedicated hosting, Windows-based servers seem to be a good option. But there are other factors as well. Windows servers do charge extra costs that may develop into a burden in the fullness of time.
On the other hand, as far as Unix/Linux-based web hosts are concerned, Unix and Linux are two diverse operating systems. It should be remembered always that Unix-based servers can manage a large amount of traffic. This does take place since Unix is a vigorous operating system and can deal with hosting manifold websites on a single server with no trouble.
Besides this, Unix-based servers are also very adaptable and the services running on a known webserver are customizable without difficulty. In contrast to Windows, Unix servers are not restricted to specific remote administration programs. It is not at all a problem for any computer along with an internet connection to login to a distinctive Unix server by means of freely available software. What’s more, lots of webmasters do prefer Unix in comparison to Windows due to the server uptime.
Which is the right choice then? Unix hosting plan happens to be the best choice, in case of an average website.