Can you guys give me some of your opinions regarding these questions stated below.

Advantage of servers running on Linux:

Disadvantage of servers running on Linux:

Advantage of servers running on Windows:

Disadvantage of servers running on Windows:



Thanks in advance

John

I'm no expert, but I think it depends. What types of servers (mail, file, web, print, etc)? Some of it depends on the environment into which you're introducing the servers and what its role is. In my limited experience, I feel like it's easier to secure a linux server against outside intrusion and typically there hasn't been as much maintenance or downtown than when I've used windows servers.

But in an all windows environment, having windows servers can make sense. It also depends on client needs -- capital cost they can spend, application stack needed, etc.

I have heard plenty of advantages of linux server. But I wana know are they any disadvantages of Linux servers compare to Windows server.

If you _had_ to have Exchange, or 2k3 AD environment... I wouldn't recommend Linux - and by Exchange, I mean Exchange, not "a pop/smtp program". Also some of the .NET framework and functionality that comes with it would require web servers running Windows (the Mono Project is making great strides tho).

In the server world... for the most part Linux is better (imo) - unless you have to have M$ Proprietary software and couldn't find FOSS alternatives.

Advantages for linux server
LAMP is a big one. for websites php mysql etc. all rolled into 1. Certain distros actually have it with a gui and all u have to do is fill in the blanks. No rebooting everytime there is an update.
ftp server is easy with gproftpd.

Disadvantages of Linux.
It can be complicated to configure apache if your using it in linux. issues with front page extensions.

Advantages of windows server. Very gui oriented, click and type for ftp www.

Disadvantages of windows server.
1. $$$$$$$$$$
2. if you dont use IIS LOCKDOWN you will get hacked just a matter of time. permissions permissions permissions.


this is just my 2 cents. i have a few simple websites going 1 for work and 1 for home.
run my own ftp server for home to backup stuff.

I think active directory or novell edirectory needs to be used for a windows domain rather than using samba because samba just doesnt quite cut it compared to edirectory or active directory.

However I believe Linux Excels on the web because the web is suited to be free and open-source. As for exchange there are many linux alternatives that are better including the best Zimbra. As for cost i would still rather pick a linux RHEL Server over a Win2k3 for DNS, FTP, Mail and Web services even if they were priced the same.