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Ubuntu Linux vs Windows Server comparison

 

Comparison Buyer's Guide

Executive SummaryUpdated on Aug 7, 2024

Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:
 

ROI

Sentiment score
8.0
Ubuntu Linux is cost-effective, extends equipment lifespan, and offers stability, making it ideal for big data and multitasking.
Sentiment score
5.9
Windows Server enhances efficiency, stability, and competitiveness with cost-effective virtualization benefits and comprehensive support that adds business value.
We're very competitive commercially and technically because of it.
We've seen value in Windows Server because the systems work smoothly without any problems.
Windows Server offers excellent value for money, particularly when compared to alternatives.
 

Customer Service

Sentiment score
6.6
Most users rely on online resources and community forums for Ubuntu support, but some prefer paid services for quicker assistance.
Sentiment score
6.4
Microsoft support for Windows Server is generally effective, with high satisfaction but some variations in response speed and regional service.
They responded well, understood that the issue was not on my end, and provided a patch within two days.
The community around Ubuntu Linux is beneficial, providing answers to questions and assisting with issues.
Ubuntu Linux has a comprehensive knowledge base for self-help.
Our in-house team can also solve most issues.
If you go through a partner who sells or supports Windows, the support could be around seven out of ten, because Windows relies on these partners for assistance.
Microsoft's technical support for Windows Server has been lacking, with rare responses even with premium support.
 

Scalability Issues

Sentiment score
7.1
Ubuntu Linux is adaptable and scalable, supporting diverse server environments efficiently with cost-effective, open-source architecture for seamless transitions.
Sentiment score
8.3
Windows Server is generally scalable and effective for diverse needs, though complexity may increase with expansion, especially in large environments.
In a server environment, it can seamlessly adapt to increased customer demand.
I rate its scalability a ten out of ten.
It's definitely scalable.
The solution is used extensively in our organization, and we have plans to increase the usage.
 

Stability Issues

Sentiment score
7.9
Ubuntu Linux is highly stable and reliable, especially the LTS versions, despite minor issues with specific software setups.
Sentiment score
7.9
Windows Server is highly stable, especially post-2012, with users rating it between eight to ten for reliability and performance.
Ubuntu Linux is extremely stable and maintains uptime effectively.
Ubuntu Linux is generally stable, though there can be occasional issues with new hardware integration.
Ubuntu Linux is very stable.
We have experienced no blue screens or crashes and often achieved an uptime of 2,000 to 3,000 days without any issues whatsoever.
Stability-wise, I rate the solution a ten out of ten.
The tool is stable.
 

Room For Improvement

Ubuntu Linux requires better Windows software support, improved interfaces, enhanced enterprise tools, stability, security, and optimized resource management.
Users seek enhanced performance, smoother updates, better security, flexible licensing, improved integration, stability, and user-friendly features for Windows Server.
There is a push towards integrating AI into software for various purposes like video and sound processing.
Stability issues occur when integrating new components due to physical or technical challenges.
Unlike CentOS, Ubuntu Linux lacks an easily accessible inbuilt repository where dependencies or packages are easily found.
The solution should improve its stability.
From a security perspective, sometimes, malware attacks and hackers take advantage of the tool's vulnerabilities.
Deploying antivirus and firewall software on the server is advisable, but having an external firewall adds an extra layer of security.
 

Setup Cost

Ubuntu Linux offers a free, flexible operating system, with optional paid support from Canonical for enhanced enterprise functionality.
Windows Server licensing is complex and costly, with core-based pricing, seeking a simpler and competitive model.
The setup cost is free.
Ubuntu Linux is open-source, leading to cost savings through its free availability.
It is quite expensive.
Previously, a Windows Server with two processors cost around two 154 euros annually, but now it is estimated to be around 3,000 to 4,000 euros for the same configuration.
On a scale of one to ten, with ten being the most expensive, I rate it ten out of ten.
 

Valuable Features

Ubuntu Linux offers security, fast boot, extensive software, customization, and support, making it user-friendly and reliable for beginners.
Windows Server provides efficient virtualization, domain management, and seamless integration with improved security, usability, stability, and application support.
Ubuntu Linux's open-source nature supports community contributions, bolstering its development and support ecosystem.
Ubuntu Linux supports remote troubleshooting via SSH, allowing connection from anywhere, which is beneficial for troubleshooting server issues.
Ubuntu Linux is extremely stable, rock solid, and reliable.
Windows Server is a stable and scalable solution.
The most valuable features of the solution stem from the fact that every Microsoft product is scalable, flexible, secure, and available on a certain budget.
The IP directory is the most valuable feature.
 

Categories and Ranking

Ubuntu Linux
Ranking in Operating Systems (OS) for Business
2nd
Average Rating
8.6
Reviews Sentiment
7.7
Number of Reviews
143
Ranking in other categories
OpenStack (1st)
Windows Server
Ranking in Operating Systems (OS) for Business
4th
Average Rating
8.2
Reviews Sentiment
7.0
Number of Reviews
188
Ranking in other categories
No ranking in other categories
 

Mindshare comparison

As of April 2025, in the Operating Systems (OS) for Business category, the mindshare of Ubuntu Linux is 14.0%, down from 22.5% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of Windows Server is 9.0%, up from 8.6% compared to the previous year. It is calculated based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Operating Systems (OS) for Business
 

Featured Reviews

Kevin Haury - PeerSpot reviewer
Linux's advanced terminal empowers versatile usage and ongoing secure development
Initially, there was nothing complicated. It's easy since I have many years of experience with it. However, if I were a beginner with Linux, it could be completely disruptive compared to Windows. So, I would have to spend some time practicing with Linux to understand how it works and how I can accomplish the same tasks compared to Windows. Maybe one month, at least.
VIJAY RAGAVAN - PeerSpot reviewer
Facilitate fast deployment and seamless network management in global enterprise environments
Network configuration and management in Windows Server is very easy, providing fast deployment, plug and play capability, and simplified partition creation. This ease is crucial for us as we operate in analytical sciences with multiple laboratories. Additionally, backup work is facilitated by our own backup deployment managers, enhancing our management capabilities.
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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
14%
University
11%
Manufacturing Company
8%
Educational Organization
8%
Computer Software Company
13%
Government
9%
Financial Services Firm
9%
University
8%
 

Company Size

By reviewers
Large Enterprise
Midsize Enterprise
Small Business
 

Questions from the Community

Which would you choose - Ubuntu Linux or Oracle Linux?
Ubunto Linux is a complete Linux operating system that is freely available with both community and professional support. This solution is suitable for both desktop and server use. It has a very app...
What do you like most about Ubuntu Linux?
It has a good support system for loading databases.
What needs improvement with Windows Server?
I think there is room for improvement in the stability of older versions. Additionally, Windows Server could be more power-efficient, especially for individuals doing labs or studies on personal co...
What is your primary use case for Windows Server?
Windows Server ( /products/windows-server-reviews ) is the operating system we run on our servers. We use it in the IT department, primarily as the OS for our servers.
 

Also Known As

Ubuntu
No data available
 

Overview

 

Sample Customers

Samsung, eBay, AT&T, Walmart, Cisco, Time Warner Cable, Bloomberg, Best Buy, Dell, Intel, Microsoft, Ericsson, Orange, Wells Fargo
Rakuten, Rackspace, Tyco
Find out what your peers are saying about Ubuntu Linux vs. Windows Server and other solutions. Updated: April 2025.
849,686 professionals have used our research since 2012.