Let’s first start by understanding what is VPS and how it differs from the traditional alternative of a dedicated server. VPS stands for Virtual Private Server. As the name implies, this is not an actual dedicated server, but a virtual one. What you get here is an instance of the actual physical server. A single server can run multiple instances of an OS and can thus server multiple clients. Each VPS is defined by its own instance of operating system. Since each VPS has its own virtual OS, the client gets full administrative control. This also has a cost advantage. Since the same physical system gets divided into multiple virtual systems, VPS becomes much more affordable as compared to its alternative.

Now let’s take a look at the advantages of Linux based VPS and Windows VPS one by one

Advantages of Linux VPS:

You might be aware that Linux is a free and opensource operating system. This is a key advantage of Linux VPS. As the operating system itself is free, most of the utilities and software that you will need are also free. Another advantage of an opensource OS based VPS is that you can easily find support online. If you run into some trouble or if you find it difficult to manage the VPS at some time then you can easily find solutions on online forums and discussion panels.

Opensource software is highly flexible and Linux is no exception. This benefited is also evident in Linux VPS systems. Compared to other options, Linux VPS is highly flexible and can be used with most of the popular control panels including C-Panel. It should be noted that C-panel is not supported in the case of Windows VPS.

Last but not least, perhaps the most important factor is that of security. Again the opensource nature of Linux comes to the rescue. Security measures get updated faster and are more regularly available.

Advantages of Windows VPS:

As you might have guessed by now, the biggest advantage of choosing a windows VPS is that of the easy to use user interface. The simple to use user interface makes it easy for you to configure and monitor your VPS. The same functionality is also available in the Linux VPS but in that case, you will have to use the command prompt. In order to use Linux based VPS, you might have to learn and remember all the commands but there is no such need when it comes to windows VPS. The graphical user interface is highly intuitive and with just some basic learning and google searches you will be able to handle the server all by yourself. It is for this reason that windows VPS is a popular choice for those who opt for unmanaged VPS.

Coming to the flexibility part, it lags behind monovm Linux VPS. Windows is not free and you will have to obtain a user license from Microsoft. This means that you get a package and you have to stay within the limits defined by Microsoft. If you are someone who is not well versed in web technologies then this should not bother you as you won’t be able to tweak the server without professional help. But if you are someone who knows the ins and outs of the web tech then it’s better to go for Linux VPS. As we have mentioned earlier, you won’t be able to use C-panel with Windows VPS.

We hope by now you have become informed enough to make your decision on whether to go for Linux or Windows VPS.