Hello! Im creating a PHP application for my company. The application its going to be used by around 500 people in the network. I've always used Windows Server for my PHP applications, but I want to start using linux. I've heard its faster and more secure.

I want to knwo, what type of computer should I use? Is does linux work better on Intel Xeon or AMD? I need the application to work fast.

Am I going to have any problems with incompatibility if I get a Dell server?

I've used Ubuntu, just to check it out, but I've heard Centos is better for web servers, is that true?

Please let me know which route to take! Thank you!

I would suggest that the scenario you suggest isn't the best to try out a new operating system. Do this project the way you already know, and start using Linux in your own spare time or for non-mission critical projects. You won't have a problem with basic support areas like you are asking, and anything sounds like it will do fine. It just doesn't sound like a responsible thing to do when you are asking such basic questions about Linux.

What you heard is right. You can use linux for scalability, Security and performance.

You can choose any of the server based processor based on Intel or AMD.

You needs to choose Server Linux operating system. Ubuntu have separate version for servers. CentOS is good and easy to manage server if you worked with Redhat Distro. CentOS is optimized for server and pure server OS. Depends upon you application you can more optimize it.

When it comes to server hardware, you must check compatibility of hardware for linux OS. Most of the Dell servers available in the market are linux compatible.

I second acid_kewpie's advice.

Use Windows for now, because you won't mess up as easily, and learn Linux along the side. Don't start setting stuff up with Linux until you are comfortable with it.

Linux server installations do not have a GUI (In case Windows Server does and you did not know this about Linux). If you do not feel comfortable on the command line, then you should not jump in immediately with a Linux server.

I hope this helps.

Intel and AMD performance varies. AMD I have noticed a faster response on some apps. But I've also noticed intel handles multiple apps alot better. So in my opinion. Intel is the beter server processor but uses more power and amd is more energy efficent and runs a little cooler. This opion isn't exactly based on the latest amd and intel cpus as well.

For server distro. Again in my opinion I hate debian basted distros for server. When apache took over the project they took the 3 configuration files and put it into 1 and debian for some reason put the config files into like 5 different files. My favorite distro for servers is CentOS 5.x.

Im glad you are considering linux. Just be aware that its very complicated and confusing when you don't understand. But as time goes it becomes as easy as windows. Only you get the bonus of world support to keep up with security advisories and help you need.

Depends totally on what Intel- or AMD-CPU you are using.

I am refering to say a AMD Opteron and Intel Xeon at the same speeds and same mount of cores. I think intel may have the edge. But regardless the both are very competitive brands and the both perform outstandingly.