A server is a specialized computer operating with client and server architecture to serve requests of client computers. Operating systems have been designed to specifically run on these servers and there are several types of server operating systems.

Linux servers and Windows servers are two main types of server operating systems that have different features and enhanced capabilities. While they are both among the top server operating systems, these are the key differences between Linux servers and Windows servers.

Linux


  1. Linux is a family of open-source operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system released in 1991. Linux distributions include Ubuntu, Mint, and Xubuntu and some of the key features of Linux are multi-user capability support and portability. Linux also adopts a three-layer security framework of authentication, authorization, and encryption, and provides good community support.
  2. There are several benefits to using Linux. It is an open-source software and is thus freely available. Linux is also very secure, with advanced administrative features and multitasking functionality.
  3. On the other hand, Linux is not the most user-friendly server operating system and is less compatible in terms of entertainment support. Linux also has less technical support as well as storage management support.

Windows


  1. Microsoft initially released its server operating system in 2003 and one of its latest servers is the Windows Server 2019, an operating system that bridges on-premises environments with Azure. It adds additional layers of security while enabling the modernization of applications and infrastructure.
  2. One of the key features of this server operating system is hybrid capabilities with Azure and an IT consulting company will find that the software minimizes investments while increasing hybrid capabilities.
  3. Advanced multilayer security is another feature of the Windows Server 2019 and it looks at security concerns in IT service management. The server also enables the creation of cloud-native apps and modernizes traditional applications using containers and micro-services.
  4. Some of the benefits of using a Windows server is that it is user-friendly and supports a range of third-party applications. Windows also provides long-term, extensive support and system updates can be installed easily. The server operating system is also easy to customize.
  5. However, Windows servers are not available for free and follow a high-cost licensing approach. The operating system is also vulnerable to security threats and is prone to malware.

Key Differences Between Between Linux And Windows Servers


  1. One of the key differences between Linux servers and Windows servers lies in the fact that the former is an open-source operating system and the latter is a proprietary software. Windows is also easier to install than Linux and has a higher level of hardware compatibility.
  2. In terms of security concerns in IT service management, Windows has more security problems but requires less handling. Linux, however, costs less as it is an open-source programme and is comparatively more stable than Windows.
  3. With a Windows server, an IT consulting company can easily share files, documents, and printers, while Linux server installations are more difficult.
  4. Looking at server management and databases, Windows usually supports Microsoft SQL server and Access databases and Linux usually supports MySQL and PostgreSQL databases.
  5. While these differences look at the features of the different server operating systems, it is also important to look at differences in functionality and usage. Access is one of the key elements to consider here, with Linux allowing users to access and alter the code and Windows limiting access to a select few.
  6. In IT service management, the element of access can be argued about, however, with some saying public access, like with Linux, may give malicious developers the opportunity to manipulate weaknesses of the server operating system and others arguing that public access enables faster improvements and bug fixes.
  7. In terms of support, community and paid support are available for both Linux and Windows servers and those in the IT service management industry are willing to share useful tips and guides on support forums.
  8. Regarding application installation, the process is more centralized with Linux, which means that the user can search for, add, or remove software from a centralized location. With a Windows server, the installation process is not centralized and can be complicated to users.

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