Linux vs Windows for VPS: which to choose
Compare AlmaLinux, Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS Stream, and Windows Server for VPS hosting. Learn the strengths of each OS and which is best for your use case.
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The operating system you choose for your VPS determines what software you can run, how you manage it, and how much RAM the OS itself consumes. Most web servers run Linux-it is faster, cheaper to license, and better supported for web hosting software.
Linux vs Windows
| Linux | Windows Server | |
|---|---|---|
| License cost | Free (open source) | Additional license cost |
| RAM overhead | ~100–300 MB idle | ~1–2 GB idle |
| Web hosting support | Excellent-Apache, Nginx, PHP, MySQL native | IIS, MSSQL, .NET native; PHP/MySQL possible |
| Management | SSH command line (GUI optional) | RDP graphical desktop |
| Security updates | Frequent, fast, free | Monthly Patch Tuesday |
| Best for | WordPress, PHP apps, Node.js, Python, APIs | ASP.NET apps, MSSQL, Windows-only software |
Linux distributions compared
| Distribution | Base | Stability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| AlmaLinux 9 | RHEL clone | Enterprise-grade LTS | cPanel/WHM, production hosting, enterprise apps |
| Rocky Linux 9 | RHEL clone | Enterprise-grade LTS | Same as AlmaLinux-alternative RHEL rebuild |
| Ubuntu 24.04 LTS | Debian | 5-year LTS support | Most popular for VPS, vast documentation, aaPanel |
| Debian 12 | Debian | Very stable, conservative | Minimal servers, maximum stability preference |
| CentOS Stream 9 | RHEL upstream | Rolling updates | Testing RHEL-compatible software (not for production) |
Windows Server
UnderHost offers Windows Server on select VPS and dedicated plans. Management is via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). Choose Windows Server when:
- You need to run ASP.NET or .NET Framework applications
- Your software is Windows-only (MSSQL, certain ERP systems)
- Your team prefers a graphical desktop interface over the command line
Windows Server requires more RAM (minimum 2 GB just for the OS) and carries a license cost added to the VPS price.
How to choose
- WordPress / PHP / most web apps → Ubuntu 24.04 or AlmaLinux 9
- cPanel/WHM → AlmaLinux 9 (required)
- aaPanel or HestiaCP → Ubuntu 22.04 or 24.04
- Maximum stability, minimal packages → Debian 12
- ASP.NET or Windows software → Windows Server 2022
If unsure, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is the safest default-the largest community, most tutorials, and excellent software support.
Related: How to choose the right operating system for your VPS | Getting started with AlmaLinux on your VPS | Getting started with Ubuntu Server on your VPS | How to reinstall the operating system on your VPS
Need a server with this OS?
Deploy Linux or Windows workloads on an UnderHost Cloud VPS or dedicated server with the operating system that fits your stack.
