Choosing the right server operating system is the key to efficient, uninterrupted operation. To make the right choice, it is necessary to take into account a set of characteristics and parameters. Let's understand what types of operating systems exist and how they differ from each other.
Whichever operating system you choose, it will belong to one of the families: Linux or Windows. Before deciding on a particular operating system, you should understand what criteria you should rely on. Such parameters are of fundamental importance:
Cost - it is necessary to find out in advance how much it will cost to use this or that option (there are also free operating systems);
Reliability - the reliability of this criterion is usually confirmed by reputation among users;
Security - the availability of backup copies and protection systems against hacker attacks are fundamental characteristics;
Periodicity of updates - find out how regularly new versions and all kinds of additions are published;
Ease of use - there is an OS with an intuitive interface, and there are options that only professionals with experience in system administration can handle.
Finally, it is important to decide for what purpose you will use the server operating system. For example, a one-page business card site or a large online store with online payments often require completely different options.
MAIN TYPES OF SERVER OPERATING SYSTEMS
The functioning of the server is based on the operation of a specific operating system. Several popular solutions are possible.
Windows Server
A practical suggestion, especially when storing files. There is no need to compare Windows Server with the regular operating system installed on most personal computers.
Universality is among the absolute advantages of the server version. Yes, the system is used for:
applications;
mail servers;
file servers.
However, the risk area of Windows Server is related to security. Most viruses are written specifically for Microsoft software, potentially reducing the level of protection during administration. However, the latest versions of the operating system are endowed with a higher level of security, and high-quality antiviruses are also released.
FreeBSD
The oldest and quite reliable operating system, the indisputable advantage of which is the absence of a fee. In this regard, ⅖ of all servers interact with FreeBSD. Reliability, quality, flexibility of settings are also among the strengths of the system.
However, the relevance of this operating system is lost over time, and the lack of a sufficient number of clear instructions makes administration difficult.
Debian
An OS that is a Linux distribution. It is considered universal and is used both on servers and on ordinary personal computers.
This option is able to provide uninterrupted and stable operation, as it is considered a good solution for the server. However, a key drawback is that updates to this operating system are extremely rare.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux
Especially relevant for corporate use, this system is popular and secure. Red Hat Enterprise Linux is characterized by commercial distribution support.
Keep in mind that it can only be used on a paid basis. New versions are presented every three years.
CentOS
Similar in characteristics to the previous version, but works on a free basis. A fast YUM package manager, support for all main hosting admin panels, a large number of forums with useful information on a list of important system advantages. Among the disadvantages, infrequent updates of the necessary software should be noted.
Ubuntu
A simple free option, acceptable in the absence of serious loads. Easy-to-understand manuals, instant availability and excellent security are also advantages of Ubuntu.
The problem is that there is no choice of programs written for this operating system, which makes it difficult to use large servers.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN WINDOWS AND LINUX OPERATING SYSTEMS
As mentioned earlier, when choosing an operating system for the server, you should give preference to Windows or Linux options. These two groups of operating systems have a number of significant differences that play a fundamental role in choosing appropriate solutions.
Core
For each operating system, the kernel is the most important component and therefore can be called one of the defining parameters.
In the case of Linux, the kernel is characterized by these properties:
the core is a monolith implemented as one file - if you need to improve functions, you need to use modules;
interacts with programs through system calls - thanks to the standardization of this process, the software can work on different Linux platforms without changes;
has built-in drivers - as programs are placed in the user space, taking into account the graphic shell, the level of security increases.
The situation with Windows is radically different. The kernel has these characteristics:
Contains a large number of fragments of dll libraries, each part of which carries its own functionality;
The use of system calls is completely absent;
User programs use special libraries, which in turn call functions from ntdll.dll;
The drivers are controlled by the hal.dll library, each driver is separately connected to the kernel;
The system can be adapted to various programs.
Despite the high level of adaptability of the Windows kernel, it should be borne in mind that the performance of this system is significantly lower than that of Linux.
File system and disks
The difference in the functioning of the Windows and Linux file systems is also significant.
Linux offers the following features:
starting from the main directory of the system partition, with subsequent connection of disks located in the necessary subdirectories;
sorting files by directory by type;
arranging storage devices alphabetically and partitions in numbered lists.
Files in Windows are organized with the following features:
Linux-like classification of partitions and disks, but with hidden information (we see, for example, disks C and D);
the location of each program in a separate folder with settings, resources and files.
In general, the Windows file system is more user-friendly for beginners.
Settings repository
Speaking about the features of saving settings, it is important to consider not only convenience for users, but also security issues. In the case of Linux, the settings have the following capabilities:
stored in standard files;
applicable to all users;
in the case of software, settings are placed in hidden subdirectories.
Windows offers a slightly different solution:
settings are stored in the corresponding registry;
there is a separation of keys and branches, which allows for real-time access;
remote change of software settings is possible.
Despite the fact that both solutions are safe, in the case of Windows there is an obvious drawback - lack of portability.
From the point of view of storing settings, there are pros and cons for both Windows and Linux systems.
Features of program and update management
If in the matter of saving the system settings, the situation is somewhat different with the management of updates and programs. When choosing a Linux server, consider the following:
available repositories of software packages;
there is no need to download software from the Internet, which ensures a high level of security and continuity of updates.
Windows has these features:
no repositories;
the need to download and install the software yourself;
independent update of programs (but with the need to reboot).
Thus, Linux operating systems have more advantages in this regard.
Comparing all the capabilities of operating systems based on Linux and Windows, we come to the conclusion that there is no clear leader. While some users are attracted by the convenience and ease of use of Windows, others are attracted by the decent management and security features of Linux.
The scale and specificity of the requirements, the level of training of the specialist who will deal with the administration, also affect the final choice.
How can we help?
The Server Solutions company sells Dell PowerEdge R760 and Dell PowerEdge R760xs servers throughout Ukraine, among our customers are small, medium and large businesses. If you or your company needs advice and the purchase of high-quality server equipment, then you should contact us.