When most people think of servers, they think Windows. But Linux quietly runs most of the internet—including the services your business probably depends on every day. Should your business consider Linux?

Here’s what you need to know, explained without the jargon.

What is Linux, exactly?

Linux is an operating system, like Windows or macOS. It’s free, open-source, and runs on everything from smartphones (Android is based on Linux) to the world’s largest supercomputers.

For business purposes, Linux typically runs on servers—computers that provide services to other computers and users on your network or the internet.

Why businesses use Linux

It’s stable and reliable

Linux servers are famous for running for years without needing restarts. Many businesses have Linux servers with uptime measured in years, not days or weeks.

It’s secure

Linux’s architecture and the open-source development model result in fewer security vulnerabilities. While no system is immune to attacks, Linux is generally considered more secure than alternatives.

It’s cost-effective

Linux itself is free. No licensing fees. For businesses running multiple servers, the savings can be significant compared to Windows Server licensing.

It’s efficient

Linux typically requires fewer resources than Windows to accomplish the same tasks. Older hardware that struggles with Windows can run Linux smoothly.

It powers most cloud services

AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud all support Linux extensively. Many cloud-native technologies are designed for Linux first.

Common Linux use cases in small business

Web servers

Most websites run on Linux (Apache or Nginx web servers). If your business hosts web applications or websites, Linux is often the natural choice.

Database servers

MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB—the databases powering business applications typically run on Linux. Performance is often better than Windows equivalents.

File servers

Linux makes an excellent file server, especially for mixed environments. Samba allows Linux to share files with Windows computers seamlessly.

Network services

DNS servers, DHCP servers, VPN servers, firewalls—Linux handles network infrastructure tasks efficiently.

Development environments

Software development teams often prefer Linux for consistency with production environments and access to development tools.

Container hosting

Docker and Kubernetes (container orchestration) are Linux-native technologies. If you’re using containers, Linux is the platform.

Linux vs. Windows Server: When to choose each

Choose Windows Server when:

  • You’re heavily invested in Microsoft technologies (Active Directory, Exchange, SQL Server)
  • Your applications require Windows
  • Your IT staff only has Windows experience
  • You need tight integration with Microsoft 365

Choose Linux when:

  • You’re running web applications, databases, or cloud-native workloads
  • Cost is a primary concern
  • You value stability and performance
  • Your applications support Linux (most do)
  • You’re working with containers or DevOps practices

The hybrid approach

Many businesses run both. Windows for end-user devices and specific Microsoft workloads; Linux for servers, databases, and web applications. This isn’t unusual—it’s often the optimal approach.

Managing Linux servers

Linux servers require different skills than Windows. Key areas include:

  • Command line proficiency – Linux administration is primarily done through command line, not graphical interfaces
  • Package management – Installing and updating software works differently than Windows
  • File systems and permissions – Linux has its own approach to managing files and access
  • Service management – Starting, stopping, and configuring services uses different tools
  • Scripting – Bash scripting automates common administrative tasks

This is where professional help matters. Misconfigured Linux servers can be just as vulnerable as any other system.

Common Linux distributions for business

  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) – Enterprise-grade, commercial support, certification and compliance focus
  • Ubuntu Server – Popular, well-documented, good for web and development workloads
  • Rocky Linux / AlmaLinux – Free RHEL alternatives after CentOS changes
  • Debian – Stable, conservative updates, popular for servers

For most businesses, Rocky Linux or Ubuntu Server LTS (Long Term Support) are solid choices with good community support.

Getting started with Linux

If you’re considering Linux for your business, start with:

  1. Identify use cases – What would run on Linux? Web servers? Databases?
  2. Assess skills – Do you or your team have Linux experience?
  3. Plan management – How will servers be maintained and updated?
  4. Consider automation – Tools like Ansible simplify Linux server management (see my post on Ansible for small business)

Linux expertise in Colorado

As a Red Hat-certified systems administrator, I help businesses in Colorado Springs and Denver implement and manage Linux infrastructure. Whether you’re considering your first Linux server or need help with existing Linux systems, let’s talk.

Linux isn’t scary—it just needs someone who knows it well.