Windows or Linux - Which Server is Good for Your Business Needs

Windows is the most preferred operating system for PCs and Laptops; and Linux is the most preferred operating system for Web servers and DNS servers. But when it comes to enterprise network servers and storage servers, both operating systems compete neck to neck. And it is very difficult to decide which operating system is better suitable for your enterprise needs.

Windows Vs Linux Servers

Cost: Well, Linux rules here. Linux is effectively free. All server OSs from Windows comes with a licensing fees and multiple system implementations needed higher cost. With Linux there are no limits of implementations.

Application Integration: Windows is slightly better with application integration and availability of applications. Linux also has a range of enterprise computing applications available; but finding and configuring those may require higher expertise.

Performance: Linux is very flexible, often virus-free and fast performing OS. Also Linux works perfect with different levels of hardware components. We can add, modify or delete programs and components without restarting the server. Windows is stable but not that much flexible.

Troubleshooting: All the security patches of Windows servers come from Microsoft and are released on a quarterly basis. Linux patches come from its developers and community and are released often. For troubleshooting issues Microsoft has paid help-desk support. Many Linux versions also has paid help-desk support but online forums and communities are better and cheaper options.

The Choice: If your enterprise needs low-cost, very stable and dedicated servers, then Linux can be the best choice. But implementation and administration needs good expertise. Windows is costly but more user-friendly for a regular computer administrator.

SWAN Solutions and Services is a leading Enterprise Server Dealer in Mumbai offering both Linux and Windows servers. SWAN also offers structured cabling and networking services to business of many types and sizes.

Choosing Right Server Systems for Your Business

Server systems have become important for data storage, sharing, security, backup and virtualization. Servers now also play a very important role now in sales force automation, customer relationship management and business management. But, choosing server for enterprise needs proper understanding of many things and proper planning.

Like most other business decisions, choosing a server system also demand proper evaluation of your current and future computing requirements. Ones you are certain about the needs, you can choose from a different range of server systems and products. There are mainly 3 types of server systems.

1. Tower Servers: These are server systems that looks like a desktop PC, and in fact can be operated like so. These are relatively low-cost options and are relatively easy to manage. Tower servers are quiet and are available with Windows or Linux operating systems. But these servers have limited capabilities and are ideal for enterprises that have 10 or low users and not need virtualization.
2. Rack Servers: These are server systems that are mounted on a rack. Rack servers come with standard width and height. The rack provides space, structural support, power and cables for servers. These servers are scalable but require dedicated temperature management and often require additional features, operating systems and hyper-visor programs.
3. Blade Servers: These are server systems operate inside a chassis. They can be easily installed and serviced and the chassis offer power, switches, networks, firewall and load balance to the servers. These are neat and compactly packed systems that need dedicated cooling facilities.

This blog is written for SWAN Solutions Mumbai, India, leading Indian server system dealer offering a range of different server systems from leading manufacturers.