Try our new research platform with insights from 80,000+ expert users
IIS Logo

IIS Reviews

Vendor: Microsoft
4.0 out of 5
Badge Ranked 1
806 followers
Start review

What is IIS?

Internet Information Services (IIS) provides a secure, easy-to-manage, modular and extensible platform for reliably hosting websites, services and applications. With IIS, you get choice and control without giving up reliability or security.
Get the IIS Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about IIS, NGINX Plus, Oracle WebLogic Server and more!
IIS is the #1 ranked solution in top Application Infrastructure solutions and #4 ranked solution in top Application Server solutions. PeerSpot users give IIS an average rating of 8.0 out of 10. IIS is most commonly compared to NGINX Plus: IIS vs NGINX Plus. IIS is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 60% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 17% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
IIS
May 2025
Get the report
Helped 853,271 peers since 2012

Featured IIS reviews

Read more reviews

IIS mindshare

Product category:
Application Server
As of May 2025, the mindshare of IIS in the Application Server category stands at 7.1%, up from 6.9% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Application Server

PeerResearch reports based on IIS reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryApplication ServerMay 29, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersMay 29, 2025Download
ComparisonIIS vs Oracle WebLogic ServerMay 29, 2025Download
ComparisonIIS vs TomcatMay 29, 2025Download
ComparisonIIS vs JBossMay 29, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
NGINX Plus4.3N/A93%31 interviewsAdd to research
Oracle WebLogic Server4.024.4%86%35 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

Users highlight IIS's ease of use, integration with Microsoft products, and resource efficiency. Its interface is simple and user-friendly, facilitating quick learning and management. Noteworthy features include controlling ports, application isolation, and improved security settings. IIS is praised for stability, high performance, and seamless deployment within Windows environments. Bandwidth control, SSL publishing, and integration with firewalls enhance its security capabilities. Free with Windows, IIS offers a robust platform for hosting websites and applications efficiently.
  • "IIS is quite easy to set up as it comes pre-configured, so I don't have to install anything."
  • "IIS works natively with Windows Server without any issues in publishing certificates."
  • "IIS works natively with Windows Server without any issues in publishing certificates."

Room for Improvement

IIS lacks compatibility across platforms, limiting versatility compared to alternatives like Apache. It often encounters integration and monitoring challenges. Software updating is cumbersome, security vulnerabilities persist, and configuration can be complex. Technical support speed and affordability need enhancement, while documentation should be clearer. The interface could be more intuitive. Performance stability is a concern, especially with non-.NET applications. Price and scalability remain issues, needing simplification for better user adoption across diverse environments.
  • "Microsoft products can only work within the Windows environment, which limits their versatility."
  • "The only issue I've encountered is with certificates not working fine sometimes. It's influenced by the server's service performance."
  • "The only issue I've encountered is with certificates not working fine sometimes."

ROI

Authentication for network appliances and load balancing products became easy, making IIS crucial and effective. Teams, especially security and SharePoint, experienced a significant return on investment. IIS impacted operational costs positively, being affordable and instantly beneficial on the cloud version. Most users observed a return of up to 50%, attributing it to its ease of use and pricing. Some highlighted the need for security investment when hosting on personal servers.

Pricing

Enterprise buyers report that IIS pricing is typically bundled with a Windows Server license, reducing additional setup costs for those already using Microsoft's ecosystem. Many companies appreciate this bundling as it often makes IIS cost-effective. However, there are concerns about the high cost of Windows Server and the potential need for additional expenses like SSL publishing. Licensing options vary between subscription-based and perpetual models, and while some find the pricing reasonable, others regard it as expensive.
  • "IIS comes along with an OS license from Microsoft. Others can opt for a perpetual-based licensing model to be able to use the system."
  • "They offer a one-time payment model for the product license, and we pay annually for support."
  • "Users can get a subscription-based license or a perpetual license for IIS."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations use IIS mainly for web application hosting, managing internal applications, and serving as an operating system for servers. Many utilize IIS for deploying web-based applications, facilitating user authentication, and enhancing web security with SSL certificates. It's frequently implemented for running enterprise and cloud-based applications, as well as supporting customized platforms for sectors such as healthcare, government, and finance. IIS is integral in environments resistant to cloud deployment, favoring on-premises approaches.

Service and Support

Many users have not needed Microsoft’s customer service for IIS. While a few have accessed technical support, experiences vary; some find the support responsive and good, while others feel support staff could improve in problem-solving and efficiency. Community resources are often used over direct support, especially when simple queries arise. Microsoft's documentation is helpful, but direct technical support sometimes experiences delays, and for some, community forums or search engines like Google are preferred.

Deployment

IIS's initial setup is commonly described as straightforward, often deployable within minutes to a few hours. Users note its simplicity, especially for basic configurations, though complexity can increase with additional features. Deployment typically involves navigating Windows Server roles and adding IIS components. Minimal resources are generally needed for implementation. Even organizations unfamiliar with the steps find the process manageable, and larger infrastructures may require slightly longer deployment times. Some perceive the setup as less complex than alternatives like Apache.

Scalability

Scalability of IIS varies; while some users indicate it is scalable, others experience limitations. Factors like server setup, clustering, and integration impact its ability to expand. Internal usage often sees fewer challenges compared to large external demands. Users find enhancements in newer versions improve scalability, yet it often requires additional efforts for broader application integration. Flexibility in scaling through multiple servers is a noted advantage, though it sometimes struggles with complex environments.

Stability

IIS is highly stable, with many users rating its stability between seven and nine out of ten. Most report good performance, though a few note occasional issues or compatibility concerns with non-Microsoft technologies. Recent enhancements have improved its robustness. It typically maintains high server uptime, with minimal glitches or crashes. Despite some users observing room for improvement, it remains a reliable and widely used option for hosting on-premises applications.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our IIS Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
17%
Financial Services Firm
15%
Manufacturing Company
8%
Government
8%
University
6%
Comms Service Provider
6%
Retailer
5%
Educational Organization
4%
Insurance Company
4%
Energy/Utilities Company
4%
Healthcare Company
4%
Construction Company
3%
Non Profit
2%
Wholesaler/Distributor
2%
Hospitality Company
2%
Performing Arts
2%
Transportation Company
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Real Estate/Law Firm
1%
Outsourcing Company
1%
Media Company
1%
Legal Firm
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%

Compare IIS with alternative products

Go!

Learn more about IIS

IIS was previously known as Windows Server IIS.

IIS customers

Erste Bank Group, NJVC, Samsung Electronics, Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, Tata Steel Europe, Urban Software Institute

Related questions

  • 60
Which is better - IIS or NGINX Plus?
  • 44
Is Microsoft IIS an application server or a web server?
  • 18
When evaluating Application Server, what aspect do you think is the most important to look for?
  • 9
What are the pros and cons of JBoss and Oracle Middleware?
  • 6
Resin vs WebLogic? Pros and Cons?
  • 4
Why is Application Server important for companies?

Product Categories

Product Categories
Application Server
Application Infrastructure

Popular Comparisons

Popular Comparisons
NGINX Plus vs IIS Logo
NGINX Plus vs IIS
Oracle WebLogic Server vs IIS Logo
Oracle WebLogic Server vs IIS
IBM WebSphere Application Server vs IIS Logo
IBM WebSphere Application Server vs IIS
Tomcat vs IIS Logo
Tomcat vs IIS
JBoss vs IIS Logo
JBoss vs IIS
Apache Web Server vs IIS Logo
Apache Web Server vs IIS
Oracle SOA Suite vs IIS Logo
Oracle SOA Suite vs IIS
Microsoft .NET Framework vs IIS Logo
Microsoft .NET Framework vs IIS
Oracle Fusion Middleware vs IIS Logo
Oracle Fusion Middleware vs IIS
IBM WebSphere Message Broker vs IIS Logo
IBM WebSphere Message Broker vs IIS
Oracle Application Server vs IIS Logo
Oracle Application Server vs IIS
Oracle GlassFish vs IIS Logo
Oracle GlassFish vs IIS
SAP NetWeaver Enterprise Portal vs IIS Logo
SAP NetWeaver Enterprise Portal vs IIS
Windows Process Activation Services vs IIS Logo
Windows Process Activation Services vs IIS
Windows Server AppFabric vs IIS Logo
Windows Server AppFabric vs IIS
See all alternatives
 

IIS reviews

Sort by:
IS
IT System Administrator at Bouri
Verified user of IIS
Feb 23, 2025
Seamless website publishing with user-friendly interface and great SSL support

Pros

"IIS works natively with Windows Server without any issues in publishing certificates."

Cons

"The only issue I've encountered is with certificates not working fine sometimes."

What is our primary use case?

I use IIS for publishing websites, particularly with SSL certificates, and it serves our ERP system. We also connect it with our tax government portal for online payments.

What is most valuable?

IIS works natively with Windows Server without any issues in publishing certificates. It is easy to publish websites with SSL, and it integrates well within the local environment and cloud. Moreover, it offers a user-friendly interface for IT administrators.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (436 words)
PeerSpot user
Relationship Manager at a financial services firm with 5,001-10,000 employees
Verified user of IIS
May 7, 2025
Setup is straightforward and efficient in internal environments but has limitations in integrations outside of Windows

Pros

"IIS is quite easy to set up as it comes pre-configured, so I don't have to install anything."

Cons

"Microsoft products can only work within the Windows environment, which limits their versatility."

What is our primary use case?

I primarily use IIS in our organization's day-to-day operations for running our internal Intranet. It is deployed within our corporate setting.

What is most valuable?

IIS is quite easy to set up as it comes pre-configured, so I don't have to install anything. The configurations are simple, making it very easy to use and to set up everything. This efficiency is particularly beneficial within a Windows environment.
*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (427 words)
Buyer's Guide
IIS
Download free report
Find out what your peers are saying about IIS. Updated May 2025
853,271 professionals have used our research since 2012.
LD
Information Technology Division Director at Ethiopian Roads Administration
Verified user of IIS
Aug 1, 2024
Has a straightforward setup phase and offers a good ROI to users

Pros

"The product's initial setup phase is straightforward."

Cons

"The visibility feature of the product is an area with certain shortcomings where improvements are required."

What is our primary use case?

My company uses the servers under IIS for some of the applications. It is a web application, so my company runs it on IIS.

My company develops some applications in-house, and once the development and deployment phases of such applications are finalized, it is expected to be deployed on IIS so that they can be accessed from outside of our office premises, specifically in some branch office or a real project where the applications can be accessed through IIS.

What needs improvement?

My company has been using the services from IIS for a long time, and one of the things that we have noticed is that it is a good system that offers good service. Every time a new version of the product was introduced, there were improvements in it from Microsoft's side, and we haven't found any challenges or problems with this service so far. For our company, it is not possible to comment on what requires improvement in the product.

With every new version and new OS, the security aspects of the product were improved.

The visibility feature of the product is an area with certain shortcomings where improvements are required. If some AI features can be added to the product, then it would be good.

If Microsoft could come up with some AI features for the product, then it would be advantageous for our company.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (796 words)
LD
Information Technology Division Director at Ethiopian Roads Administration
Verified user of IIS
Mar 11, 2024
Simple to use and easily deploys applications internally or externally

Pros

"The solution is very simple to use and easy to deploy."

Cons

"Sometimes, we encounter difficult issues, and getting support from Microsoft to resolve those issues is not easy."

What is our primary use case?

We commonly use IIS to deploy most of the applications or network services internally or externally. We have to deploy different kinds of applications on IIS to access them externally. IIS makes these applications available to the internal or external end users.

What is most valuable?

The solution is very simple to use and easy to deploy. Once you deploy your application, it can reach the desired users. Since the solution already came together with the Windows servers, the deployment of our applications is clear and straightforward.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (486 words)
DanielWildermuth - PeerSpot user
Testtool expert at Helvetia Versicherungen
Verified user of IIS
Aug 6, 2023
Provides integration with Eggplant but problems with stability

Pros

"We use Windows Server only for Eggplant Manager. "

Cons

"At the moment, we have big problems with stability, and I'm not very happy at the moment. So, the stability could be improved."

What is our primary use case?

We use Windows Server only for Eggplant Manager. Otherwise, I'm not using it.

What is most valuable?

 

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (163 words)
Ersoy Ustun - PeerSpot user
System Engineer at Teleperformance
Verified user of IIS
Jul 30, 2023
Easy to manage platform with good scalability

Pros

"The initial setup is simple."

Cons

"The platform's stability could be better."

What is our primary use case?

We are using the platform for automatic web services.

What is most valuable?

The platform is easy to manage.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (192 words)
Roymell Santos - PeerSpot user
ICT Officer at Intelligent Skincareinc Inc.
Verified user of IIS
Jul 24, 2024
Provides integrated security features and assures server reliability

Pros

"The product's most valuable features are performance and security. "

Cons

"The solution's pricing and stability need improvement. "

What is our primary use case?

We use the platform for hosting Dynamics from our Microsoft Server.

How has it helped my organization?

The product is essential for hosting our ERP and managing our database, making it very important for the company.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (248 words)
WK
CEO at WilCom Systems Ltd
Verified user of IIS
Feb 28, 2024
Easy to use, cost-effective, and the return on investment is instantaneous on the cloud

Pros

"The product is easy to use."

Cons

"The user interface could be improved."

What is our primary use case?

We started using the solution for running web applications. We have custom applications that we develop for different customers. They are for case management, government statistics, and records. It depends on what we are running. We have run it for payment integrations in different types of platforms.

What is most valuable?

The product is easy to use. It might be easy because we've used it for long. When we use a product for a long time, it becomes second nature. We have never had any security breaches.

*Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Read full review (446 words)