Once solely the pursuit of PC hobbyists, Linux is experiencing amazing growth as a business operating system. Linux has many benfits, causing IT administrators to weigh all options when considering Windows vs Linux for business. Even though the lines are blurring, there are still areas to consider where each OS outdoes the other.
Windows vs Linux: Linux Wins
- Pricing: Windows Server licensing, especially for higher-end platforms like Enterprise, is expensive. Add per-seat licensing and the bill gets higher. Some flavors of Linux are free and even those that do have fees are less expensive than Windows.
- Performance: This is a major factor when comparing Windows vs Linux. Windows crashes far more often than Linux and requires more system resources even when running properly. If a company has major uptime and performance requirements, Linux may be the way to go.
- Vmware: Linux is considered so integral to Vmware that the virtualization tool comes with its own implementation of Linux. Vmware servers run virtual guests and simply cannot rely on Windows with its performance and crash issues.
Windows vs Linux: Windows Wins
- Ease of Use: Many have been using Windows OS’s for years and are familiar with the interface, making Windows Server operating systems a breeze to use. The Windows GUI is easy to use and figure out what you’re trying to do just though clicking and trial and error. This isn’t the case with command line OS’s like Linux, where specific commands are necessary.
- Support savings: Comparing Windows vs Linux administrator skills, it’s easier to find staff familiar with Windows than with Linux. Linux administration is more of a specialized proficiency, making skilled Linux employees harder to find and more expensive.
Windows vs Linux: Blurring the Lines
Some considerations when deciding between Windows vs Linux, like ease of use and the performance impact of the GUI, are mitigated by some aspects of these OS’s. Some flavors of Linux do come with a GUI, making them easier to use for anyone who is only familiar with Windows. Windows Server, on the other hand, features an optional installation called “Server Core” that features no GUI, just command line, making it far more stable and reliable. Considering these developments, it’s safe to say that anyone evaluating Windows vs Linux should test drive and carefully assess both in order to truly decide the best option.