Linux versus Windows

Most I.T. purchasing decisions are arrived at by reaching a compromise between functionality and cost. When your business deploys a server, Micro Division Solutions can help you to determine whether Windows or Linux best suits the needs of your small business, and then advise you as to the hardware and software required to implement the chosen solution.

Overview

In general terms, the Enterprise Linux Server, which is based on Linux, provides compelling value and is suitable for many business usage scenarios. On the other hand, Windows Small Business Server provides more advanced features that may be needed in some circumstances.

Enterprise Linux Server

There are four major cost components when deploying a server:

• Hardware
• Software licenses
• Server security
• Consulting fees

When you choose to deploy the Enterprise Linux Server, you save money in at least three of these areas. Here’s how:

• The hardware requirements are less than Windows Small Business Server
  • Windows SBS 2008 Standard Edition requires a 64-bit server and at least 4Gb of system memory
  • Windows SBS 2008 Premium Edition requires two servers
• There are no licenses to purchase for the core server software; only some add-on software is separately licensed
• Enterprise Linux Server has built-in antivirus and anti-spam technology; only desktop antivirus software is required
• Enterprise Linux Server has built-in backup software; there is no need to purchase a separate backup solution

In addition, Enterprise Linux Server often takes less time to configure than Windows Small Business Server, which means that you might also save on consulting fees.

Windows Small Business Server

On the other hand, Windows Small Business Server continues to offer the best solution if your business requires:

• Complex groupware scenarios, such as:
  • Allowing employees to maintain more than two calendars (one personal and a second shared company-wide)
  • Allowing large numbers of employees to access numerous other employees’ email folders
• Microsoft SQL Server, which forms the basis for many business products, such as accounting, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and ERP
• A Groupware and Document Management System, such as Windows SharePoint Services
• A centrally managed antivirus or other security product

However, Windows is far costlier to implement and support, and often requires more maintenance over the lifetime of the server when compared with a Linux solution.

In addition, we provide a number of products tailored specifically to address the needs of cost-conscious businesses. Don’t risk your valuable business information by trying to go it alone!

Contact us now for more information. Remember, there is absolutely no obligation when you call or email.