Linux Server: Why It's the Best Choice and Which Distros to Use

The Linux Server is one of the best server options in terms of performance.

For businesses, this type of server can be the best choice, since it is quite versatile and powerful.

The most interesting thing about Linux servers is that they are available in a wide variety of distributions, with different functionalities for all needs.

In this article, we will explain everything about Linux Servers. So, follow along!

What is a Linux Server?

A Linux server is a server created from the open source operating system, Linux. 

Therefore, it is a server with a wide range of possible uses, full of functionalities.

In this sense, Linux servers are quite capable of serving any business. They enable applications, websites and content to be made available quickly.

Additionally, this type of server can manage networks, systems, databases and internet services.

One of the main advantages of the server is that it is made available through different Linux distributions.

Distributions are operating systems within Linux, which have different capabilities, created by a community of developers.

Have you ever imagined accessing a server that can be constantly improved, with forums and communities available for discussion? This is possible with Linux servers. 

Linux Server or Windows? Learn the Differences

The main difference between the two servers is the operating system. 

Simpler users, who use a device to watch some content or install an application, do not feel major differences.

This is because, regardless of the operating system, all services are being made available by a server connected to the internet.

However, when we think about hosting and other more technical terms, then it is possible to point out differences. Check it out:

Programming Language

If you develop a website using ASP, .NET or C#, the use of Windows servers is mandatory, since these languages were created by Microsoft and only work on this system.

The remaining languages will work on Linux, such as PHP, Python, Perl, Ruby on Rails and others.

Costs

Some service and application licensing are paid. On Linux, most applications are free and, when paid, they tend to be cheaper than those on Windows.

Services

Some services and applications are also created by Microsoft and, therefore, can only be used on the Windows server. This is the case with the Access or Microsoft SQL database.

On the other hand, there is a great diversity of services available on Linux.

Performance

The performance of the Linux server is better in the sense that the technical characteristics of Linux require less from the hardware.

Stability

The services used on Linux servers are more stable compared to Windows. This is because there are Linux servers that work, without updates, for more than a year, for example.

Security

Linux security can be seen as superior to Windows, due to the administrator structure, users and even folder and file permissions.

Additionally, because it is open source, developers are frequently correcting problems and updating available servers.

3 Advantages of Using a Linux Server 

Check out the greatest advantages of using a Linux server:

Linux server = stability

On Linux, it is possible to make changes to the service without needing to restart the device in question.

This way, there is no need to be afraid of updating the server while using its services.

Additionally, because it is an open source system, a series of developers work every day to optimize the server.

There is a group of specialists who seek to find errors, security flaws and other inconsistencies in the server in order to fix it right away.

This way, the Linux server works with great capacity, without freezing or decreasing performance.

Linux server = security

Linux was created based on Unix, in order to be a multi-user operating system. This way, only the administrator can use some functions, while users have fewer permissions.

In any case, it is clear that Linux is vulnerable to viruses. However, developers are always attentive to act. 

Linux server = flexibility

Users have easy access to the source code. Therefore, when installing, it is possible to compile configurations and libraries according to the hardware of the computer on which Linux is being installed.

Some resources can be changed according to a company's work, thus making a server aligned with the objectives of a business, for example.

Best Linux Distros to Use on Servers

Find out which are the best distributions to use on Linux servers:

Ubuntu

The Ubuntu server, also known as Ubuntu Server, is one of the most outstanding in various aspects.

Managed by Canonical, it has several functionalities inspired by the classic Debian.

For many, it is the best option, as it features simple installation, easy hardware discovery and commercial support.

Debian

Debian is another distribution option for using Linux servers. It was created in 1993, and since then has inspired the creation of various distros, such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint and Vyatta.

The distribution stands out for its stability. When releasing a version, it has support for up to 5 years.

Unlike other distros, Debian does not have commercial support, as it is genuinely created by developers.

However, you can get your questions answered by consultants spread throughout the world.

Red Hat Enterprise

The Red Hat operating system for servers is called Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL).

It is based on the Fedora community. Either way, it stands out more than its inspiration, as it offers stability, durability and high-quality support.

What makes this distribution the favorite of many companies is its support that can last up to 10 years on each released version.

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Conclusion

So, now you understand what a Linux server is and why it is one of the main options in the Information Technology (IT) market?
If you liked this article, we recommend the following reading: "How to get LPI certification: EVERYTHING you need to know!".