Windows Applications

The primary reason to choose Windows web hosting is the need for compatibility with Windows applications. Microsoft has effectively cornered the market and created somewhat of a monopoly in the consumer computer industry. The main problem with Windows applications is that they need to be run in the Windows operating system. If your sites currently utilize Windows applications, then you will need a Windows-based web server to keep your site running smoothly. Since Windows web servers only receive support from Microsoft, consumers have to wait until Microsoft can fix any bugs, unlike Linux which is an open source software. This dependency on Microsoft makes Windows web hosting more expensive, and absolutely necessary in some situations.

The Windows Brand

The second reason why people choose Windows web hosting plans over Linux web hosting plans is the trust in the Windows name. Many average computer users have never heard of the Linux operating system. Many people simply trust the Windows name more than Linux, but does this make it any more powerful or capable than Linux? In technical terms – no. In social terms – yes. In other words, the power and convenience of the operating system is no longer a factor since the Windows brand is synonymous with a large portion of computer technology. It is nearly impossible to buy a good piece of software without having access to Windows or Mac. As Mac web hosting is unavailable, Windows is the familiar name that comes to mind.

Simpler User Interface

Another reason why someone would use Windows web hosting would be the sheer familiarity of the operating system over Linux. If you’re familiar with the Windows operating system then chances are you’d be more inclined to choose a Windows web hosting plan. This however is not always the correct thing to do, as the user interface of a Windows server is not exactly the same, or similar to the Windows operating system. In fact, many people believe the Linux servers contain an easier interface. In fact, many would venture to say that Linux is an overall better value for your money, which would only leave one reason to buy Windows web hosting – the need for Microsoft compatibility with web applications. The entire Microsoft organization is built on this concept; monopolize and conquer.

Plesk Features

The Plesk control panel aims to the simplify various administrative processes.  It lets you create and manage domains, install SSL certificates and even access the built-in site builder for putting your website together.  You can perform a number of simple tasks such as setting up email accounts, webmail and autoresponders as well as more advanced functions like billing customers and blocking spam with greylisting.  In addition, Plesk gives you the ability to manage files through a web-based file manager or by means of a FrontPage administrative panel.  Whether its viewing a website’s bandwidth usage or managing customer accounts, it can all be done within the confinement of this extremely capable control panel.  Plesk offers tremendous power, able to reduce operating costs and resource usage by automating a variety of tasks.

Control Levels

Plesk offers four levels of login, each with their own responsibilities and privileges.  These levels include:

Administrator – The highest level, this login allows the administrator control virtually every component of the system.  Once logged in at this level, you can centrally manage multiple servers be it an HTTP web server like Apache or a database server like MySQL.

Client – The client level login allows resellers to obtain creation rights from the system administrator.

Domain – The third level login is designed for the website owner or end user.  These permissions are what provides a user the ability to manage their hosting account.

Mail User – The fourth level login is designated for individual mail accounts.  Here, users can login and maintain their email accounts, change passwords, configure spam filters, change virus settings and more.

Plesk is One of the Best

Though it extends benefits to the end-user, the Plesk control panel was designed with professional web hosting providers and experienced system administrators in mind.  It enables companies to be very successful by providing the ability to maintain thousands of accounts per server with a high level of performance and better security than most competing control panels.  The software comes bundled with a variety of tools and even includes an application installer that allows end-users to incorporate blogs, bulletin boards and other types of program.  Plesk delivers the seamless automation needed to enrich and simplify the technically challenging hosting operation.

]]> http://www.webhostingfan.com/2009/06/introducing-the-plesk-control-panel/feed/ 0 http://www.webhostingfan.com/2009/06/factors-to-consider-for-your-web-server-software/ http://www.webhostingfan.com/2009/06/factors-to-consider-for-your-web-server-software/#comments Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:20:47 +0000 gracechen http://www.webhostingfan.com/?p=43 There are a number of factors that must be considered when it comes to choosing the web server application you want to utilize.  Elements such as the operating system, the level of security, scalability and price should all come into play when basing your decision.  It can be a grueling process but focusing on these key components will make your choice much easier.

Operating Platform

The operating system you choose to run the server on will have a major influence on the software you decide to go with.  The most popular platforms today are Windows, Unix and various flavors of the Linux operating system.  While all can perform in a multitude of environments, Windows is usually preferred in the business setting while Unix and Linux are designed for more complex and demanding tasks.  There are also other choices such as Mac OS X, but this platform isn’t as common and therefore lacks support from the web community.

Solid Security

Above all, security should be your number one priority in choosing web server software.  Since most websites are public, they make a prime target for hackers and other cyber criminals looking to steal sensitive information.  Even if you decided on a seemingly secure application, keep in mind that the server is really only as secure as its configurations.  For example, it probably wouldn’t be a good idea to leave the default security settings intact because the attackers have already discovered ways around them.  Additionally, you want a server that is easy to patch and update to ensure that the latest security vulnerabilities and issues are addressed.

Easy Scalability

Scalability refers to your web server’s ability to grow alongside the growth of your web operations.  This is an extremely important quality as a slow server could end up costing you new visitors and customers as well as existing ones.  On the web, they say that you only have a few seconds to grab the attention of potential customers.  If your web server can’t perform or slows down after a couple thousand hits, you have essentially set yourself up for failure.

Good Support System

Apache is the most popular and widely installed web server in the world.  The software is freely available and can be downloaded by virtually anyone.  While this is definitely a plus, it can also be a disadvantage considering how you view the situation.  Apache and other open-source programs come at the price of limited formal support.  If you don’t have an experienced IT staff on hand to deal with the server, you may want to choose a product that comes with official support to help out when things get rough.

True Value

Cost is often the first factor many people consider when they want to invest in something.  With a web server, it should be the last thing you consider.  As we mentioned, there are free servers as well those that come with expensive licenses, particularly Microsoft’s IIS (Internet Information Services).  This specific application ranks up there with the best but you could actually hurt your efforts by judging web servers on cost.  Pick the cheap software and you just might end up with a product the lacks the compatibility, scalability and functionality you need to be successful.

]]> http://www.webhostingfan.com/2009/06/factors-to-consider-for-your-web-server-software/feed/ 0 http://www.webhostingfan.com/2009/05/matching-your-control-panel-with-a-platform/ http://www.webhostingfan.com/2009/05/matching-your-control-panel-with-a-platform/#comments Tue, 19 May 2009 12:25:51 +0000 gracechen http://www.webhostingfan.com/?p=17 There are several popular control panels out there but the right one for you all depends on the platform you choose to host on.  In the web hosting arena, control panels are mainly designed for one of two platforms: Windows or Linux.  Let’s go over some of the most popular options.

Windows Platform

Helm

Helm is one of the best control panels available for Windows.  The software offers a number of user-friendly features and is tightly integrated with an array of management and billing tools.  This gives Helm advantages over many competing applications.  Boasting a well designed interface and extremely easy to use, Helm makes an excellent choice for many hosting environments.

Host Accelerator

Though lesser known, Hosting Accelerator is another viable option for Windows hosting.  The interface is a bit clunky and less organized but it does provide you with most of the basics.  Because it lacks some of the features found in similar applications, the H-Sphere control panel is best suited for modest needs.

Linux Platform

cPanel

cPanel is king on the Linux platform and the most widely used among all control panels.  Known for its simple design and ease of use, this software gives you tons of features that can all be accessed from the main page.  One of the best features integrated within the control panel is Fantastico.  This third-party application is bundled with a variety of programs that range from blogs to bulletin boards.  cPanel may be designed with the novice in mind but its rich set of features cater to experienced webmasters as well.

DirectAdmin

DirectAdmin is another control panel that serves the Linux platform.  This software is easy to use and generally comes attached with cheaper fees.  DirectAdmin is known for its straightforward interface and usability.  The biggest downside is that it lacks many of the helpful administrative features found in other Linux control panels.

Interworx

The Interworx control panel offers both sophistication and ease of use.  Simplicity is enabled through the user interface that puts all the essential features in plain view.  There are also a number of wizards and other tools that can guide you through the configuration process.  The learning curve with Interworx is short as the software provides an environment that enables beginners to become advanced fairly quickly.

Cross-Platform

Plesk

Plesk is one of few control panels that actually supports both Linux and Windows platforms.  Though usually more expensive, this software is very popular and highly regarded as a worthy competitor to cPanel.  Plesk offers an interface similar to Windows XP which makes it very easy to work with.  Features such as the premium site builder and management tools qualify Plesk an excellent choice for both platforms.

In the end, the control panel is a matter or preference, but you certainly need to keep an eye on the platform.  cPanel is dominant on Linux, Helm is the preferred choice on Windows and Plesk suits either or.  You can make a more informed decision by examining these control panels a bit closer to see what each has to offer.

The Need for Control Panels

The major goal of a control panel is to help you get hands on really play an active role in maintaining your hosting account.  It aims to enrich and simplify the experience by providing a user-friendly graphical user interface that can be mastered with little to no technical knowledge.

Most control panels give you convenient access to all the features included in your hosting plan.  Basic features include capabilities such as being able to add on domains and log into your web mail.  With a good program, you can manage all of these features and even access the tools needed to actually create your site.

Advanced Features

Over the years, control panels have received notable upgrades that enable them to offer a broader range of advanced features.  It isn’t uncommon to find software that allows you to establish an FTP connection, incorporate image galleries and perform web-based backups.  Another popular feature is the inclusion of add-on programs.  Though Fantastico is the most known, there are several built-in tools that let you install a wide range of free programs.  These applications usually include scripts for blogs, shopping carts and content management systems.  When moving into more advanced forms of hosting, you have control panels that allow you to set up hosting packages, maintain multiple user accounts and administer various aspects of the server.  The capabilities tend to be extended with each new release.

Distinguishing Control Panels

For the most part, all control panels strive to provide the same results but there are factors that separate different software.

Presentation – The biggest difference is the interface and software design.  While one program may differ from another in terms of appearance, they all provide you with a centralized area where all your features and tools can be accessed.   Some applications are just more organized and intuitive than others.

Features - Features is another area in which control panels standout from one another.  All contain the basics but some lack advanced functionality and are best for more simplistic types of hosting.  For example, you have your control panels designed for shared hosting and others made to perform in the dedicated server environment.  It is vital to determine the features you need before making a choice.

Platform – The difference in control panels is the platform they are designed to run on.  Some applications are specific to the Windows operating system, some to the Linux environment and others support both.  There are reliable control panels available for most operating systems but you should know that your choice could limit you to the capabilities of a certain platform.

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