With its command-line interface (rather than pointing and clicking) Linux Hosting runs the open-source Linux operating system. While Linux is less common in desktop computing, it’s immensely popular among mobile developers — it powers Android — and game developers.

When people evaluate Linux vs. Windows hosting, they learn Linux servers are popular for their security and stability. Linux Hosting rarely need rebooting or restarting, so even complex updates to your website can be achieved with little or no downtime.

The Linux operating system also offers fewer opportunities for hackers to exploit, so they’ll often move on to easier targets when faced with a site on Linux Hosting.

Once you start comparing the Linux vs. Windows hosting server, you’ll see the biggest difference when you log in. Linux use a command-line interface, where users enter strings of text to perform actions, compared with the familiar point-and-click interface used by Windows servers.

Some applications and features are only available for one specific type of hosting. For example, the popular cPanel hosting application runs only on Linux servers. Meanwhile, the Visual Basic or .NET programming languages are only available with Windows Hosting.

If any of this sounds overly confusing, check in with your web developer before making a purchase. If you’re planning to create a website on your own but web hosting seems too complex, instead take a look at our easy-to-use Website Builder or Managed WordPress.

For many people, either type of hosting will be just fine. However, there are a few key differences that might influence your choice between Linux vs. Windows Hosting.

For starters, Linux Hosting uses a command-line interface that might initially confuse users accustomed to pointing and clicking. That alone might make Windows based hosting your best choice, as its user interface is similar to what you’d find on desktop computers. It’s also your only choice if you need to use Visual Basic or .NET programming languages, or create databases using Microsoft Access or SQL.

However, many users swear by Linux Hosting due to its stability and security. When you make even the largest updates to your website or server, Linux Hosting rarely requires a reboot or restart. That means your site will be open for business when visitors come looking. Linux Hosting is also far more difficult for hackers to exploit, so they’ll often move on to another target when faced with a Linux server.

ASP.NET is the go-to for frameworks requiring less code to build robust applications. And yes, Windows Hosting works well with it. ASP.NET hosting simplifies common tasks creating and maintaining a website, allowing you to focus on providing the best possible experience for visitors.

When evaluating ASP.NET hosting providers, consider the perks we offer in addition to our 99.9% uptime guarantee: 24/7 monitoring and DDoS security and 1-click setup for domains registered with Monumental.