Introduction
This is one of the most common questions many hosting providers receive
from those setting up a web hosting account for the first time.
Many people that their hosting provider needs to run the same operating
system as they do on their home or business computer.
This is not true.
The operating system you run on your PC has absolutely no relation to
what your host's web server is running.
Since Windows and Unix claim almost 99% of the market share for
applications, they are the one's used by most hosting companies
including Netmation.
Windows Hosting
This platform gives you access to database development tools such as Active
Server Pages (ASP), MS Access, Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) support and
helps you get the most from Microsoft's latest authoring tools. Though
UNIX solutions will also support FrontPage extensions a Windows Hosting
environment is recommended should you be use a wide range of Microsoft
developement tools for your web page development.
Data from can be stored and manipulated into large databases.
In order to implement these features, you'll have to
purchase the software programs that provide these tools from Microsoft.
These powerful features, however, come at a cost ranging into the
thousands.
Unix Hosting
Unix is considered the hosting operating system of choice for most
professional, advanced users.
Many web server applications available on the Internet,
both as freeware and commercially, are intended for use with the Unix.
This includes many of the scripts, written in languages such as
Perl, C, C++, Java, and PHP, which are used to add functionality to web
sites.
Those using a Unix hosting environment will have more hands on
capabilities within their account on the server.
With Unix based Telnet and SSH connection, customers can do a
lot more themselves by logging into their user directories. Including
easily managing files and directories, changing file permissions, and
debugging programs.
A Unix solution will probably also get you the most
for your dollar without sacrificing stability.
Conclusion
If you don't know by now, it's very likely that you could choose either
operating system and be just fine. Many times the decision is based on
what applications you require for your web page. If you plan on taking
advantage of some of the pre-built applications Netmation has developed,
this will be a major factor in deciding between a Unix or Windows
hosting solutions. Please contact Netmation and discuss
your needs so we can determine which is the best solution for you.