An Overview of Linux Control Panels: What Are They and Why Are They Important?
If you’re a website owner, you know that managing your web hosting services can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, by using a Linux control panel, you can simplify the process and have more control over your website. In this article, we will explore Linux control panels in detail and explain why they are essential for hosting websites. Also, it may be a good idea to visit Ispmanager’s website for advanced information!
What is a Linux Control Panel?
A Linux control panel is a web-based interface that allows you to manage your web hosting services. It is a smart tool to manage your website(s) hosted on a Linux server. This is ideal for website owners who want to have complete control over their hosting.
The software may potentially spare you the need to hire a professional Linux administrator. With a Linux control panel, you can manage website files, email accounts, databases, and other hosting features through a user-friendly UI.
One example of a Linux control panel is the simple control panel Linux by ISPmanager LTD. This control panel provides users with access to a wide range of server features, including some vital security features that will help to protect both your server and website .
Why Are Linux Control Panels Important for Web Hosting?
There are several benefits of using a Linux control panel for website management. One of the most significant benefits is that it is easy to use, even if you have no experience with Linux administration. Moreover, a good Linux control panel provides flexible features for security that help protect your website from hacker attacks and DDoS — this may include intuitive firewall UI, “block by country” feature, built-in FTP manager, email control options and others .
When to Use Control Panel Instead of Plain Linux?
While plain Linux can be used to manage web hosting services, it is not as user-friendly as a control panel. Therefore, we recommend using a control panel if you want to have an easier time managing your website. A control panel is especially useful if you — or some of your employees that will have to work on the website — are not familiar with Linux administration.
If you have a professional Linux admin in your team, you may want to try using a plain Linux server hosting to save some money and keep it simple — although it will be increasingly harder with each new website you host.
Open Source vs Commercial Control Panels
There are two types of Linux control panels: community-based and commercial.
Open-source Linux control panels are often used for self-hosted servers, as hosting providers often choose to offer one of the commercial panels. Community-based control panels are free to use and provide users with many of the same features as commercial control panels — excluding the most advanced ones.
One popular open-source Linux control panel is Webmin. This control panel provides users with a simplistic web-based interface for managing their web hosting services. It includes basic features such as managing users and groups, setting up FTP connection and configuring email service, as well as managing databases. It is a minimalistic and reliable solution that offers a list of essential features, though the UI may feel pretty outdated. Also some admins report security issues and exploits that might compromise your website — especially if you are using an outdated version of Webmin.
Another open-source Linux control panel is HestiaCP. This control panel is designed based on the classic free Vesta control panel, which is no longer supported. Hestia offers an extended list of features combined with the familiar and loved Vesta-like user interface. It is easy to install and pleasant to use with its sleek and fast UI — though some professional admins report performance and stability issues, though it shouldn’t be a problem for small servers.
All these (and more) are open source and free to use. However, they may not have all the features that you need to manage your website.
On the other hand, there are commercial control panels like ispmanager and cPanel offer a wide range of features for managing your website, making them better suited for more complex web hosting needs. These might cost more, but offer professional support and regular updates, which is perfect for commercial purposes
Choosing the Best Commercial Control Panel
One of the most popular commercial Linux control panels is cPanel. This control panel provides users with a wide range of features to administer their web hosting services, including email management, domain management, and file management.
cPanel is known for its comprehensive feature set, but it can be expensive, especially for small businesses. Additionally, some users have reported issues with slow performance and difficulty with customizing certain settings.
Another commercial Linux control panel is Plesk. It provides users with a WordPress-like UI and easy integration with the said CMS, although the basic web admin license offers limited capabilities — some features are locked behind the paywall of a more advanced Plesk license.
Ispmanager: A Smart Control Panel
Ispmanager is a great choice for website owners who want flexibility and ease of use. It is pretty affordable compared to other commercial control panels.
The panel is designed with the website hosting tasks in mind and receives updates automatically. It is compatible not only with CentOS, but also with Debian/Ubuntu distributives. Ispmanager’s website provides detailed documentation.
Ispmanager supports PHP-fpm, has a built-in installer for popular scripts and CMS, and a number of partner modules that expand its functionality. These features make it a tough competitor when choosing a control panel for your next website. It is also not that hard to find, as many web hosting providers offer it as their standard control panel.
Summary
In conclusion, a Linux control panel is a valid and useful tool for website owners and admins. It simplifies the process and provides you with added control over your website. Using an affordable commercial control panel is a great choice for website owners who want to have an easy way to manage their website.
If you’re a website owner looking to simplify the process of managing your web hosting services, a Linux control panel like ispmanager could be the solution you’re looking for.
