With the Mac OS X being increasingly used in the server environment, many are now adding new wind to the debate of which platform is better for web hosting: Windows, Linux or Mac? Believe it or not, this battle is getting even more difficult to call as each system has been greatly enhanced over the years. Let's take a closer look to see what these platforms have to offer.

Price Factor

If you are looking to make your determination on price, you will likely find that Linux if usually more affordable than both Windows and Mac web hosting plans. This is because Windows and Mac OS X are the property of Microsoft and Apple, therefore, expensive licensing fees are attached. Linux on the other hand, is an open-source operating system that can often be obtained for free. This factor alone plays a large role in the price of a Linux hosting plan versus most other platforms.

System Stability and Performance

Stability is something that definitely needs to be considered when choosing your web hosting platform. Linux is well known throughout the industry for being as stable as they come, able to maintain a hosting operation under a wide range of demanding situations. The Mac OS X is based on the BSD system, which just like Linux, borrows many characteristics from Unix, the granddaddy of them all. This essentially means that Mac servers also tend to be very stable and well suited for the hosting environment. Windows on the other hand, has a history of infamous blue screens, freezing and system crashes. While the system has been dramatically improved through version releases, a Windows server will still have a tough time competing with Linux in the stability and performance department. Above all, Linux is the operating system that can truly help you harness the processing power of the underlying machine.

Simplicity and Ease of Use

This section mainly applies when running and maintaining your own server. Despite its power, Linux has also been known as one of the most difficult operating systems to use. In order to make more resources available to the computer and users, Linux utilizes a command line similar to old DOS systems, making it a real challenge for those who lack technical experience. Windows and Mac OS X platforms both offer graphical user interfaces, presenting vivid backgrounds, icons and links to greatly simplify the administration process. Because Windows offers an environment similar to the desktop setting gracing so many homes, it is arguably the easiest to use.

Making the Choice

Although Linux is the most experienced, all of these operating systems have a deep history in the web hosting business. Though definitely not as widely available, Mac hosting is becoming more popular and definitely makes a solid choice in the right scenario. Unless you have a need for your own server or certain web technologies, there is no wrong choice as you can get a decent price, great performance and equally superb value out of either platform.