Choosing between Linux and Windows VPSÂ confuses many people. Both are virtual private servers, but they run different operating systems with different costs and purposes.
Windows VPS brings the familiar Windows interface to server hosting. But here’s the catch: it costs more than Linux. Understanding when you actually need Windows versus when Linux works fine saves money.
What Is Windows VPS Hosting
Windows VPS is a virtual private server running Windows Server as its operating system. It’s like having a Windows computer hosted in a data center that you access remotely from anywhere.
You connect using Remote Desktop, just like accessing another Windows computer. The interface looks and feels familiar — icons, menus, and graphical controls you already know.
Unlike Linux servers that use command-line interfaces, Windows VPS lets you click through menus and settings. This makes administration much easier for people without technical Linux experience.
Windows VPS vs Linux VPS
| Feature | Windows VPS | Linux VPS |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Higher (licensing costs) | Lower (open-source) |
| Interface | Familiar GUI, Remote Desktop | Command line (SSH) |
| Ease of use | Beginner-friendly | Requires technical knowledge |
| Best for | .NET, ASP.NET, MSSQL apps | PHP, Python, MySQL sites |
The price difference exists because Microsoft charges licensing fees for Windows Server. Linux is open-source and free, so it costs $5-10 less monthly for similar resources.
Choose Windows when you need Microsoft technologies like ASP.NET or SQL Server. Choose Linux for PHP websites, WordPress, or other open-source technologies — it’s cheaper and works perfectly fine.
When You Need Windows VPS
Don’t choose Windows just because it’s familiar. Choose it when your requirements demand it:
- running ASP.NET or .NET applications that only work on Windows;
- using Microsoft SQL Server databases for your projects;
- working with Windows-specific software that won’t run on Linux;
- your development team builds everything in .NET framework;
- running business applications like Exchange or SharePoint.
If none of these apply, Linux VPS costs less and works fine for most websites. WordPress, for example, runs perfectly on Linux and actually performs better there.
Benefits of Windows VPS
When you do need Windows, the benefits are clear:
- Familiar interface. Remote Desktop works just like accessing another Windows PC. You recognize everything immediately.
- Microsoft software compatibility. Run SQL Server, SharePoint, and other Microsoft products seamlessly without compatibility issues.
- Easy management. Graphical interface makes server administration simple for non-technical users. Point and click accomplishes most tasks.
- .NET framework support. Native environment for ASP.NET applications and Microsoft development frameworks.
Choosing Windows VPS Provider
Verify that Windows licensing is included in the quoted price. Some providers charge an additional $10-20 monthly for licensing.
Check the Windows Server version offered. Windows Server 2019 and 2022 are current with full support. Avoid older versions.
Test Remote Desktop performance during trial periods. Laggy connections make server management frustrating.
When evaluating providers, understand your options. Some providers, like Fotbo, offer Windows VPS alongside their Linux servers in European data centers (Netherlands, Poland, Germany). While Fotbo primarily focuses on Linux-based cloud VPS from €3.80/month, knowing the full range helps you choose the right operating system for your actual needs.
Windows VPS Pricing
Windows VPS costs significantly more than Linux for the same hardware. Licensing fees are the main reason — Microsoft charges for Windows Server, and providers pass this cost to customers.
Entry-level Windows VPS starts around $15-25 monthly with 2GB RAM. Mid-tier plans with 4GB RAM cost $30-50 monthly. Compare this to Linux VPS at $10-15 for similar specifications.
Hidden costs include additional Remote Desktop user licenses, SQL Server licensing, control panel licenses, and backup storage fees. Calculate total costs including all necessary licenses before committing.
The higher cost is justified only when you specifically need Windows technologies. If your application runs on Linux, you save $120-240 annually.
Common Windows VPS Mistakes
Choosing Windows when Linux works costs extra money for no benefit. Don’t pay licensing fees just because Windows feels familiar.
Not checking if licensing is included leads to surprise charges. Always ask for total price including all licenses.
Underestimating resource needs causes problems. Windows Server needs more RAM than Linux for the same tasks — add at least 1GB extra.
Ignoring security updates leaves servers vulnerable. Windows Update must run regularly to patch security holes.
Managed vs Unmanaged Windows VPS
Managed means the provider handles Windows updates, security patches, and troubleshooting. You focus on applications while they maintain the infrastructure.
Unmanaged gives complete control but requires managing everything yourself. Windows updates can be complex, so having experts handle them reduces downtime risk.
Managed service adds $15-30 monthly but saves time and prevents mistakes. For most business users without dedicated IT staff, managed makes financial sense.
Conclusion
Windows VPS is perfect for Microsoft technology needs ASP.NET, SQL Server, and Windows-only software. The familiar interface justifies the higher cost in these situations.
However, choose based on actual requirements, not familiarity. If your application needs .NET or SQL Server, Windows is necessary. For PHP, Python, or open-source technologies, Linux saves money without sacrificing functionality.
Trial periods let you test before committing. Verify performance and confirm Windows is truly necessary for your project.
