One of the most important decisions you’ll make for your virtual private server (VPS) is choosing your operating system (OS). This will define how you interact with, manage and optimise your VPS in order to reap its core benefits. 

The better suited you are to your OS, the better equipped your VPS will be to meet your needs. Don’t get on with your OS? The day-to-day performance, security, and stability of the VPS can be negatively impacted. Windows is often the go-to OS for many businesses… but is it right for you?

What you get with Windows VPS

A VPS OS is the bridge between your hardware and software, giving you a user-friendly interface that lets you engage, manage and optimise applications and services.

With a Windows VPS, you’ll get an easy-to-use interface and scalable features, which make it an attractive prospect for growing businesses. Beyond the foundational characteristics, however, the hosting provider you choose will determine other guarantees. With Fasthosts, you’ll always get:

  • Unlimited traffic – send requests, move files, and handle visitors with no limits.
  • Trusted reliability – stay up and running with 99.999% availability.
  • Green, secure data centres – ISO 27001 certified and powered by 100% renewable energy.

How does it differ from other VPS?

A key differentiator of Windows VPS is that it seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft products, and is necessary for applications like SharePoint, Exchange, and more, in order to function. It’s also well known for its user-friendly interface and scalability. But licensing fees means this comes at a cost. 

Are you ready for the VPS transition?

While there are a number of different OS to choose from, Windows and Linux are the most popular options. But despite being the front runners, they cater to very different target audiences with very different preferences. To make sure you choose the right one for you, start with a bit of self-analysis, asking:

  • How comfortable am I using new systems?
  • What will I be using a VPS for?
  • What programmes do I currently use?

After this you’ll be better placed to make decisions on key OS factors, such as cost, performance, flexibility, ease of use and security. 

Is a Windows VPS right for you?

Generally speaking, Windows VPS is better suited for larger and/or growing businesses with bigger budgets. At the cost of a licensing fee, all your Microsoft-based products will benefit from seamless integration, while the familiar operating system and navigation makes it easier to operate at scale with less technical know-how required. Windows is also the best choice if you need file transfer protocol (FTP) access to move files between a computer and network.

Some typical use cases include:

  • Multi-location businesses – Remote Desktop Access enables easy server management from anywhere, facilitating teamwork for hybrid working and/or nationwide and global presences.
  • Finance firms – Windows VPS offers integration with common industry tools like Microsoft Excel and Access.
  • Private gaming servers – VPS is compatible with Windows-optimised games and provides better graphics and multimedia support.

What are the pros and cons?

Let’s take a look at some reasons for and against choosing a Windows VPS for your business. 

Pros:

  1. Compatibility – From .NET applications and ASP.NET technologies, to common Microsoft products like SharePoint and Exchange, a Windows VPS will seamlessly integrate. 
  2. User-friendly interface – There'll be next-to-no learning curves for those familiar with and accustomed to the Windows environment. There are also plenty of guides and tutorials online to help you.
  3. Remote desktop access – Easily find remote desktop access in ‘Settings’ and use it to access your VPS from wherever you are. 
  4. Frequent security updates – Rely on the Microsoft team to constantly introduce new security updates and measures to tackle cyber threats.

Cons:

  1. Not as customisable – You won’t be able to download as many different types of software tools as you would with Linux, making it a less flexible option. 
  2. Larger cyber threat – Windows VPS is a more common target for cybercriminals due to its popularity and widespread use. 
  3. Resource intensive – Software updates have the potential to slow Windows VPS down, making it more resource-heavy and potentially requiring more powerful hardware for optimal performance.
  4. More expensive – Windows OS charges web hosting companies a licensing fee which will be passed down to you, the customer.

Powerful and reliable Windows VPS hosting

Ready to make the move to a Windows VPS? With Fasthosts, you’ll get free Plesk for easy server management, 1 Gbit/s bandwidth, 24/7 expert support and so much more. Find your perfect fit in our package table, comparing the individual features of our Windows VPS deals.

Get in touch today to find out more about how we can get you up and running instantly.