Linux Hosting Basics

Linux hosting involves a machine configured on a UNIX platform which is a multi-user computer operating system designed primarily for servers and advanced users. In regards to Web hosting, choosing the Linux Web hosting alternative has its advantages and disadvantages.

Linux hosting is cheaper than Windows hosting. Because many Web hosts use free versions of Linux, they don’t have to compensate for huge overhead expenses which you have with any Windows Operating System. Savings is passed to customers. In addition, those who use Linux hosting usually get free tools and applications that have been written primarily for the Linux community. Since Linux hosting is an “open system”, its source code is publicly available for free from various Web sites. Linux based Web servers are usually very efficient vs. their Windows counterparts.

This allows Web developers working for various companies and for different purposes to add rapid development of applications quickly. As a result, improvements come fast and problems are quickly resolved.

The main disadvantage of using Linux hosting is that your provider doesn’t allow FTP access, it may only allow access to your account via Telnet or SSH, although this is not as common as it used to be. As are result, you must have a strong working knowledge of UNIX commands in order to customize to your requirements. You may find yourself spending a lot of time learning the basics before you can enjoy the free advantages of Linux hosting but learning the UNIX language is not that hard at all.

When considering the Linux operating system and Linux hosting, you need to consider your own technical abilities. Then take a look at the special features offered by each system and hosting company in light of the available technology and somtimes more importantly your budget.