ubuntu-linux-vs-windows-server

Ubuntu Linux and Windows Server are both operating systems that can be used to power individual machines, or business servers. Ubuntu Linux is an open source operating system popular with businesses of all sizes due to its light weight and high customizability. Windows Server is most popular with mid-sized businesses due to its ease of implementation with environments that make use of Windows applications, such as Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Office.

Features

Ubuntu Linux and Windows Server both provide essential operating system features such as providing GUI and support for peripherals, they also have some unique features that set them apart from each other.

Ubuntu Linux’s biggest advantage is that it is open source, meaning it’s source code is available for free and is worked on by a community of developers. For businesses, Ubuntu Linux can be set up for free, and customized to meet the needs of the organization given a skilled development team. Additionally, Ubuntu Linux has built in integrations with many open source software options. Lastly, Ubuntu Linux is a lightweight operating system, requiring fewer resources than other solutions.

Windows Server allows businesses to set up servers that run Microsoft software like Microsoft SQL without using an emulator. Compatibility with Microsoft software makes it easy for businesses using Microsoft technologies to implement Windows Server. Compared to open source solutions that often require command line scripting for setup or additional features like remote desktop, Windows Server is a complete service out of the box.

Limitations

Ubuntu Linux and Windows Server are both feature-complete operating systems, but they also have some limitations that are important to consider.

Ubuntu Linux offers high flexibility and potentially free implementation, but the implementation process is more difficult than Windows Server and requires a skilled development team. For businesses looking for a complete solution out of the box, other operating systems may be preferred. Additionally, while Ubuntu Linux integrates seamlessly with many open source technologies, it requires a Windows emulator to utilize software like Microsoft SQL.

Windows Server integrates well with Microsoft software, but for businesses using other server software, a different operating system may be easier to implement. Businesses that aren’t using primarily Microsoft Software may prefer the flexibility of other operating systems.

Pricing

Ubuntu Linux is an open source operating system, so its source code is available for no charge for businesses that can implement it without professional assistance. Implementation and support can be purchased from a number vendors, with prices varying depending on the vendor and the feature needs of the business.

Windows Server offers three pricing packages: essentials, standard, and data center, with exact pricing depending on the specific needs of the business.