One of the most popular types of server hosting is Windows. Windows hosting is simply a web hosting server that runs the Windows OS. At this time, the most recent Windows server platform is Windows 2008 Server. Like any type of software, there are various advantages and disadvantages for running this platform compared to other hosting options.
Advantages
There are eight primary advantages for choosing Windows server hosting over others. These include:
- The .NET framework
- Development
- Ease of use
- Scalability
- .ASP and dynamically database driven pages
- Front page extensions
- Access compatibility
- Updates
Windows hosting is the only option supporting Visual Basic or .NET programming. If this framework is necessary for a site Windows hosting is the way to go. Similarly, if Windows based applications are to be developed on a site or its essential to use Visual Interdev, then Windows based server hosting is the most viable option.
Those already familiar with the Windows operating system will have an easier time using a Windows based server. This is a tremendous attraction to beginners as they won’t have to learn a great deal of foreign information just to run their website.
As websites expand and grow over time, they need to become more scalable. This indicates a need for adapting to new and different platforms. Windows hosting is effortlessly compatible with programming features such as PHP and MySQL. Other hosting software may not run as well with Windows technologies such as Visual Basic and .net.
Windows hosting is much more compatible with popular scripting advancements such as Active Server Pages (.ASP) and dynamically database driven pages. One of the most popular web page design programs is Microsoft Front Page. Since Microsoft creates both Windows and Front Page, having a Windows server host will ensure compatibility with Front Page extensions and other features.
Those websites planning to utilize Microsoft Access for database functionality will find Windows server hosting to be easy to use. There are many options available in Access so the integration between the two is helpful. Many choose the Windows server hosting over others for this compatibility.
Finally, Microsoft continually provides updates for Windows server software. The support and number of updates from Microsoft cannot be matched. This guarantees users will have bugs fixed quickly and patches created for improved performance and increased options.
Since Microsoft has created so many popular software technologies, Windows hosting servers run smooth and are 100% compatible with each other. Languages such as Visual Basic, .net, and .ASP run terrific with Front Page and Access. The largest advantage of a Windows hosting server is compatibility with other technologies. In this area, Windows hosting is king.
