Linux vs Windows Server

[yankblan]

Hi,

I'm finally starting to convince our sales dept to push Linux instead of Windows, mainly to make it more affordable to customers, who need an external server vs the UC. Also, from all the threads in here, it seems pretty unanimous that CentOS is more stable than Windows.

Aside from VBS (don't know what it is, never used it and don't care), is there drawbacks as far as features VS windows? One-X Portal, CCR, Flare Presence with One-X, ContactStore, all supported?

We installed one Linux, and we changed it to a Windows because of a bug on VM Pro, that got corrected on Windows. Very specific: if customers called in and press # for the directory twice (they used to have BCM, and on this if you press # twice it lists the directory), the VM Pro would stop and the service had to be restarted. Happened only in Canadian French, not in US English. From there it was decided to only install Windows, or a UC ( I see the irony, don't mention it).

Anyway, I think it would be safe to install it, if not for that specific problem that probably got resolved in later releases.

I'd appreciate any feedback.

http://interconnexionsld.ca/

 

[hairlessupportmonkey]

The Apps server is a great choice.

You DON'T need to know Linux to install it. The Apps server is a self contained installer, installing both OS (Centos) and applications right from the start.

Once installed, you can manage VM via the windows console, and all else via its web interface.

rather than making it "cheaper" for the customer, make sure you also make more profit, meaning giving less money to MS and keeping more in your account. Making it cheaper also has the negative effect of making it a lesser product. Bear in mind most of the internet is built on Unix / Linux in one form or another!

So, if you don't need DB integration, then the Apps server is the way to go!



ACSS - SME
General Geek

 

[yankblan]

When you say DB integration, you mean that is what VBS is for?

http://interconnexionsld.ca/

 

[hairlessupportmonkey]

Database

ACSS - SME
General Geek

 

[IPGuru]

correct(ish)

VBS and Database integration are not supported on the Linux versions of VM Pro.

In my experience they are very Niche requirements (2000 + IPO systems supported & not one using it!)

another advantage to the Linux installations is one of demarcation.

No more arguments over whether it is a OS issue (& a problem for the customers IT) or a VM Pro problem. better yet random forced patched from Microsoft will not be forcing reboots or breaking any vital services (I had ago with this only a few months ago).

It sounds like you have just shouldered more responsibility (and indeed you have) but in practice it gives far less trouble.





A Maintenance contract is essential, not a Luxury.
Do things on the cheap & it will cost you dear

 

[yankblan]

No, I understood that, just wondered if VBS was used for that.

While searching, I found that UMS web VM is not supported with Apps Server, although it will work through One-X Portal. Still VM PRO UMS is a pre-requisite in Windows to make it work through One-X; does it work or is that a contradiction?

From all my research and your answers, I could see this as the only drawback if One-X VM via browser doesn't work; never used UMS directly without One-X anyway.

http://interconnexionsld.ca/

 

[yankblan]

@IPGuru One-X is the one killing me on Windows, mostly because of Win and Java updates. I'm really tired of listening to customers vent their frustration and all I can do is shrug with my palms in the air and say sorry.

The day we'll need to do DB integration, there will be a consultation between the tech and sales dept, if there will ever be a need for that.

OK, I'll continue my push, I'm confident that we can go safely.

http://interconnexionsld.ca/

 

[IPGuru]

UMS Web was a basic web application that enabled users to access there VM without the full overhead of ONE-X

VM through one-x portal on the Linux platform is fine (& is listed as an alternative to web UMS in the installation guide IIRC)

When it comes to One-X it is Linux all the way for me (I even have one site running WM & contact store on windows for capacity reasons whilst retaining the one-x on the ucm. I wouldn't have originally designed it like this the cust moved the goal posts but I am glad we did.




A Maintenance contract is essential, not a Luxury.
Do things on the cheap & it will cost you dear