Using Linux on a Dedicated Server

By Adam Gufarotti

Easy accessibility to the forums and applications make modifications to your site fast and simple. Windows often installs unnecessary pre-installed control panels and applications which take up much need space. Linux has a good reputation for its "distros" or flavors offering diversity for a multitude of purposes.

Getting Familiar with Linux

As is any new o/s Linux takes some getting used to but if you are setting up a new dedicated server installing Linux can be an inexpensive way to open yourself to an alternative to using windows. Windows security issues are the main cause of contention in the user world. Having only Windows based systems on all your dedicated servers, virtual or physical, leaves you with Security as your number one issue. Expensive windows upgrades are only part of the expense of a windows based dedicated server. Anti-spam, anti-virus, anti-spyware programs and patches are a constant source of frustration and headaches as are switching from one antivirus program to another. Constant monitoring of firewalls and security breaches do not ensure your sites are safe.

If you are investing in a managed dedicated server you would not have to deal with learning the Linux control panels or with the windows security issues either, but the Linux system's initial costs are of course much cheaper. Having Linux experts as part of your dedicated server host team can eliminate your having to be fully trained in the new system while enjoying the benefits of a safe and cheaper operating system. Linux is quickly gaining popularity as businesses prefer to eliminate their dependence on windows.

Programs for Linux

Windows Front Page publisher is supported under Linux but there may be some computability issues so using your windows dedicated server for sites that need to use these extensions. While there is only one variety of a windows dedicated server there are many for Linux including Ubuntu, Redhat, Mandrake and Debian. Some of these are costly like Redhat so Fedora is a viable alternative. Fedora is available free of charge for use on a dedicated server.

The choice of which dedicated server operating system to use, either on a physical dedicated server or virtual dedicated servers is up to the user of company. What software to install then becomes the next decision to make? cPanel, a popular web hosting control panel, is currently not available on the 2008 windows servers but does run on all of the various Linux operating systems. Programs and applications have to be chosen based on the operating system.

For more information on Dedicated Servers visit http://www.DedicatedServerGuides.com