Originally Posted by ANMMark

Linux vs Windows:

Linux:
Linux is free, freely upgradable, it's flexible, non-proprietary, application work as they should without much or any modification.

Windows:
Absolutely not free, even upgrades cost money, a lot of the addon software is proprietary, you won't get full functionality out of php. Not only is it more expensive to repair than Linux, you also need to find people who are licensed and qualified to work on Windows OS servers to avoid voiding any warranties you might have. In short, Windows Servers are made to make money for MS, and every little trickle down MS affiliate. It has it's place for the end user no doubt, but you simply can't beat a Linux machine when it comes to flexibility, price, and support.