Which one is the best will depend on what you are planning on doing with it. I use mostly Linux. Linux Hosting Benefits: - PHP and MySQL Support - Apache Web Server - Mod Rewrite Support - Chmod file permissions
Since we have the advantages of Linux listed, I'll go ahead and list some for Windows: -Full PHP, MySQL, ASP, ASP.NET, MS SQL Support -IIS Web Server, allows each site to have its own process, if one site crashes it does not effect the server or any other sites on the server as it would on a *nix machine. -IIS Rewrite (mod rewrite clone for Windows...) -Seperated Script and Web Based Permissions. (Can provide full read/write access to scripts, but still read-only access to users outside of the server -- much higher security, much easier setup). -Win2k3 R2 is very secure from the getgo...very tough to hack. Windows servers are always patched, as most patches don't require a reboot... Hope that helps! And on a side note, please don't let this turn into a Linux Vs Windows flame war -- thx.
I won't repeat what was already said. It could really depend on your budget and what you want to run. Windows you have more licensing fees (O/S, MSSQl) while linux is mostly free for those. They both have their positives and negatives.
Linux is ofcourse far superior for the hosting purpose. Since it is open source it can be easily adapted to one's needs. Windows has a big disadvantage for the professional user! If we are talking about the larger business here.
Well I use both Linux and Windows2k3. My Personal experience is if you need a professional and simple site without any frills go fo Linux (Php, Mysql) But if you are using .net or other MS products for enterprise deployment (websites) then stick with windows 2k3 - I also find almost most of the windows servers aren't as bug free as linux when it comes to supporting php & my sql etc.
There is no single "BEST" answer - it depends on what you want to use. As some of the earlier posts have indicated - if you're looking to use PHP/MySQL, Linux is the way to go. If you need ASP / dot NET, or need to use MS-Exchange or other MS oriented web applications - you need Windows based hosting. If you don't know what you need - find THAT out first before asking about which hosting platform is best. Both of them work, both have advantages / disadvantages.
This debate about linux vs windows is endless, never going to end. It's totally depends on the user, as one is user friendly and other is cost effective in all aspects. Have you searched in DP for similar threads, I am sure, you will find lots of info on the same. ATB