What It Is
An operating system is the foundation software that runs a computer and lets other programs work. Your laptop might run Windows or macOS. Most web servers run Linux, a free and open-source operating system that comes in different versions, called distributions. Linux is popular for hosting because it is stable, secure and works well with the software most websites rely on, such as PHP and MySQL.
Why It Matters for Your Business
You rarely need to think about the operating system for a typical WordPress website, because your host chooses and maintains it. It does matter in a few situations. Some business software made for Windows needs a Windows server instead. And if your server’s operating system version is very old and no longer receives security updates, your whole website is more exposed.
Good to Know
When choosing a VPS or dedicated server, ask how long the operating system version will receive security updates and who is responsible for applying them. Your laptop’s operating system has nothing to do with your website’s server. A Mac or Windows computer can manage a Linux-hosted website without any problem.