subject: What are the Advantages of Windows Hosting? [print this page] What are the Advantages of Windows Hosting?
Windows hosting is typically compared to Linux hosting, when new users are comparing web hosting packages. Right away, you will notice one major difference. Windows is Microsoft's commercial hosting system, whereas Linux is a free or open source system. These systems refer to servers (full hard drives and PCs) that have either a Windows server or a Linux server installed.
The newest Windows server is the Windows Server 2008 R2. This is a server software program that was released in the summer of 2009. It is built on Windows NT 6.1 and is the first 64-bit only OS ever released by the company. This updated software includes features like Active Directory, support for up to 256 logical processors and other virtualization features. Microsoft is offering support for this software system until 2013 (for mainstream support) and until 2018 (for extended support).
What are the benefits of Windows hosting compared to other systems? Windows servers are ideal when you are hosting Windows applications. Rest assured, if you are planning to launch a user-friendly site you will want to use some of Microsoft's groundbreaking applications.
If your website will use .net or visual basic programming then Windows servers will be required. Front Page Express extensions will only work on a Windows hosted service. If you are a fan of the WYSIWYG editor, then Windows hosting will probably be more advantageous for you. If you want to use .asp or Dynamically Database Driven Pages, then Windows is the right choice.
Yes, even experienced webmasters agree that Windows servers are easier to use than Linux operating systems. In fact, you can host a website without having to learn a complex new programming language. As .asp popularity rises, so more users make the switch to Windows server hosting.
Another program that is commonly linked to Microsoft is MS Access. This database software program requires a Windows operating system in order to function properly. Visual Interdev is another program that works well with Windows applications. Unix and Linux servers usually do not run Windows applications, at least not with stability.
The final decision on whether to choose Windows hosting or use another system depends on your vision. If you are going to be using a lot of user-friendly applications then you might want to look into buying or leasing a Windows OS server. Plan out your company expansion and determine your near future in advance! A Windows server may suit you better for the tasks ahead.
