Network Server

Before implementing any network it is vital to think about choosing which Network Server is needed within the network. When choosing a server the two main operating systems are Linux and Windows.

Linux Based Server

Linux is an open source and free operating system that comes in many flavors including Red Hat, fedora and UBuntu. People are surprised and speculate that a free operating system must not be reliable and has many errors. In reality Linux can be seen as the most robust operating system. The open source of Linux allows developers to make modifications to its operation and hence making it robust which is perfect for a Network Server. 

A major benefit for Linux is the fact that it isn’t as recognized or widely used as Windows. Due to its low scale use compared with Windows, viruses and other malicious acts on a computer are focused to Windows, targeting the larger market rather than Linux. Again this makes the OS stronger in terms of security which is essential in a Network Server.

When using a Linux OS, the first thing noticed is its speed and simplicity. The OS doesn’t focus on the Graphical User Interface (GUI) as much as Windows which therefore increases its speed and there is a less likely chance of errors occurring. There is no point of having a fancy GUI in a server anyway.

When deciding which server you want to use, Linux seems to match your needs. A server must be faster, efficient and robust i.e. does not crash and using a Linux OS covers these areas.

Windows Based Server 

After hearing about Linux why would you want to spend hundreds of dollars on Windows? One thing is to host a virtual web server but develop the logic behind the scenes of a Network Server. Here is where Windows shines.

Microsoft’s .NET Framework has enabled quick and easy web development. From a business point of view contracting developers to develop a web system with a .NET Framework is cheaper. Another great factor is the development environment that Microsoft has provided and can usually mean a web system being completed in a short period. 

Overall, although it can appear that Linux is a better choice and that there is no better operating system for any Network Server. It all comes down to the needs to the client. For personal use, Windows will seem familiar and easier to use. For commercial use, companies will have to decide according to their deadlines and budgets when deciding which Network Server or servers to choose from.

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