How To Choose Web Hosting Operating System

Principally, you will find web hosting providers having two types of operating systems- WINDOWS NT and UNIX. As the operating system is an important determinant of the server’s performance, it would be foolish to ignore this factor while deciding upon a web hosting package.
Let us understand the essential features of a good operating system before discussing the various options and their respective merits and demerits.

1. Strength:
Stability in terms of ability to withstand heavy traffic load without breaking down, is very important for a reliable operating system.

2. Security:
the operating system should be have strong security systems to keep out hackers and avoid virus attacks.

3. Manageable:
the Operating system should have user-friendly management tools.

4. Features:
the operating system should have adequate software and applications to enhance the web server. If it doesn’t have such features, third party software should be available and be capable of easy integration.

5. Flexibility:
this means the ability of an operating system to accommodate upgradation.

The various web hosting operating systems include:

Windows
This operating system provides trouble-free integration of Microsoft applications. However, they are prone to virus attacks and hacking. There is also the issue of instability under heavy traffic load.

UNIX
UNIX and Linux operating systems are much more stable as compared to Windows. Even if your website has been developed using Microsoft FrontPage, you can easily integrate applications through UNIX and Linux servers.

As a beginner, you would be better off with a UNIX operating system supporting the web host. It has various benefits such as good uptime, stability, security and lesser price as compared to Windows OS. There is also a vast amount of online information for solving any problems you might face as well as smooth integration with third party applications. Do your homework and enquire about the available operating system before you choose the web hosting company for your website.