HostingWhat operating system should my web host be running?
This is one of the most common questions we receive from those looking to set up a web hosting account for the first time. It is also one of the most complicated to answer.
For starters, many people believe that just because they run a version of Windows on their home computer they must choose a host who runs Windows NT (now Windows 2000). This couldn't be farther from the truth. The operating system you run on your PC has absolutely no bearing on your dealings with a host's web server. Even those designers using Microsoft's FrontPage will have no problem publishing their site on a Unix server.
Web Age would also like to point out that there are many different versions of Unix available, with Linux being the most popular.
Of course, Linux and NT are not the only two operating systems available. However, combined they claim well over 90% of the market share for professional applications and as a result they are the ones we concentrate on.
The choice of server will affect you primarily if you are using certain applications best supported by NT, such as Active Server Pages, or Visual Basic Scripts, or want full support for FrontPage extensions. Other applications that require an NT server to operate are MS Access or MS SQL databases.
However, Unix is the standard, reliable server and is generally considered a more stable and secure environment. Unix systems can also run database driven sites by using a server-side scripting language like Perl/PHP and a database like MySQL. The Linux platform is designed for those of you who need advanced CGI or Perl scripting needs, and also the users who want a simple but stable, cost efficient web site.
In most cases those users with specific needs will already know which operating system they should choose, but for those of you who are still confused here's a brief summary.
If you work with a designer who specializes in Unix programming, you wish to take advantage of free CGI scripts, or you have a need for a specific Unix routine or program (such as sendmail or My SQL) you should go with a host who supports Unix and thus the features you will require.
If you are strapped for cash, Linux will probably also get you the most bang for your buck without sacrificing stability.
On the other hand, if you work with a designer who specializes in the NT operating system, you work with a good number of Microsoft server applications (such as ASP or MS SQL), or you have an IT staff which is already comfortable working with NT you should choose a host that runs NT.
