What is the difference?

[Modemdude2]

I am searching HostSpot.com for a cheao/good host. What is the difference between unix server and all that stuff. I just want something with a control panel, sort of like Geocities (Not the best example, but a control panel without all the bells and whistles they have). So do I need to worry about Linux or Unix, or as long as it says control panel, should I be satisfied?

[Haze]

Since you don't need "bells and whistles", or what some call cgi, php, mysql, etc.. You should look at stability and affordability. A Unix server would probably be cheaper to run, since the software and OS it self is completly free. On the other hand you have windows which is unreliable ( in my opinion anyways ) and can be quite expensive. These expenses are then passed on to the customers of couse. In my opinion, I would go with a Unix based service. I have always had nothing but trouble with windows.

[Michael-MS]

Geocities' control panel is mainly a File Manager if I recall correctly? Meaning you upload files through a web browser instead of an FTP program.

When you switch to a virtual web host, a control panel refers to an area to manage your account. This does not necessarily include a file manager, so be careful when looking for a host if that's what you need.

If you're used to Geocities, you would want to stay with a Unix/Linux web host. Stay away from NT, there's no need to switch... since you are using Unix already with Geocities.

Just my advice, good luck! :)

[Modemdude2]

Thanks, I found a hos called Site5.com
I think I am going to go with it. Thanks for the help.

[Chicken]

Originally posted by evilhaze
A Unix server would probably be cheaper to run, since the software and OS it self is completly free.

Now I could be wrong (and maybe this is just what used to be, not the current licensing), but a Unix OS is not free, and the point (somewhat) of Linux was to create a free OS that shared similar characteristics of Unix.

Modemdude2, if your question is Linux or Unix it wouldn't matter but most likely you will be on a Linux server.

[niv]

most hosts are running Red Hat 7.1 now, right Chicken?

[Chicken]

That or 6.2 though I don't have any figures on the percentage of hosts using which versions of RedHat or other linux varient over another. Seems to be a large amount though :D

[Queeg]

Lots of web hosts are using FreeBSD now too.

[Haze]

Oops, I meant linux :P