# Top 10 Windows Server Alternatives & Competitors
**Average Rating:** 4.5/5
**Total Number of Reviews:** 256
Looking for alternatives or competitors to Windows Server? Other important factors to consider when researching alternatives to Windows Server include user interface and user management. The best overall Windows Server alternative is Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Other similar apps like Windows Server are Ubuntu, Apple iOS, Windows 7, and CentOS. Windows Server alternatives can be found in [Operating Systems](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system).


## Best Paid & Free Alternatives to Windows Server
  - [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews)
  - [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews)
  - [Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-ios/reviews)
  - [Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-7/reviews)
  - [CentOS](https://www.g2.com/products/centos/reviews)
  - [Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/oracle-linux/reviews)
  - [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews)
  - [Android](https://www.g2.com/products/android/reviews)
  - [Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-os/reviews)
  - [Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-8/reviews)

## Top 10 Alternatives to Windows Server Recently Reviewed By G2 Community
Browse options below. Based on reviewer data, you can see how Windows Server stacks up to the competition, check reviews from current & previous users in industries like Information Technology and Services, Hospital & Health Care, and Automotive, and find the best product for your business.


  ### 1. [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews)
By Red Hat
**Average Rating:** 4.6/5
**Total Reviews:** 976
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a enterprise operating system designed to provide a secure, stable, and high-performance environment for modern IT infrastructures. It supports a wide range of applications across physical, virtual, and cloud environments, making it a versatile choice for businesses of all sizes. Key Features and Functionality: - Security: RHEL offers live kernel patching, security profiles, and adheres to security standards certifications, ensuring a robust defense against vulnerabilities. - Consistent Lifecycle: The operating system follows a predictable lifecycle with three phases: full support, maintenance support, and an extended life phase, providing long-term stability and planning capabilities. - Cloud Integration: RHEL is optimized for cloud environments and collaborates with major cloud providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, facilitating seamless workload migration and management. - Developer Access: Red Hat provides developers with free access to RHEL through the "Red Hat Enterprise Linux for Business Developers" platform, allowing up to 25 instances for development purposes. Primary Value and Solutions: RHEL addresses the need for a reliable and secure operating system that can handle diverse workloads across various environments. Its comprehensive security features mitigate risks, while the consistent lifecycle ensures long-term support and stability. The integration with leading cloud providers simplifies cloud adoption and management, and the provision of free developer access fosters innovation and accelerates application development. Overall, RHEL empowers organizations to build, deploy, and manage applications efficiently, aligning with business demands for production-readiness and operational excellence.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux is:
- Better at support
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Red Hat Enterprise Linux with other alternatives:**
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-ubuntu)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-7)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-11)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Red Hat Enterprise Linux vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-8)

  ### 2. [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews)
By Canonical Ltd.
**Average Rating:** 4.5/5
**Total Reviews:** 2,395
Super-fast, easy to use and free, the Ubuntu operating system powers millions of desktops, netbooks and servers around the world.


Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Ubuntu with other alternatives:**
- [Ubuntu vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-7)
- [Ubuntu vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-11)
- [Ubuntu vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-ubuntu)
- [Ubuntu vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-8)

  ### 3. [Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/products/apple-ios/reviews)
By Apple
**Average Rating:** 4.6/5
**Total Reviews:** 1,579
Apple's iOS is a sophisticated mobile operating system that powers the iPhone, offering a seamless and intuitive user experience. With each iteration, iOS introduces innovative features and enhancements that elevate device functionality and user engagement. Key Features and Functionality: - Liquid Glass Design: iOS 26 introduces the Liquid Glass design, characterized by rounded, translucent elements that react dynamically to motion and user inputs, providing a visually engaging interface. - Visual Intelligence: This feature enables users to search, ask questions, and take actions directly with the content displayed on their iPhone screen, enhancing interactivity and efficiency. - Live Translation: Integrated into Messages, FaceTime, and Phone apps, Live Translation facilitates real-time communication across different languages, breaking down language barriers. - Enhanced Messaging: Users can personalize chats with new backgrounds and utilize polls in Messages, enriching the communication experience. - Advanced Privacy Controls: iOS 26 offers new screening tools in Phone, FaceTime, and Messages to help users manage distractions and maintain privacy. - CarPlay Enhancements: The latest update includes Live Activities and Tapbacks in CarPlay, providing more information at a glance and improving in-car connectivity. Primary Value and User Solutions: iOS delivers a cohesive and user-friendly platform that integrates cutting-edge technology with everyday usability. The introduction of the Liquid Glass design and Visual Intelligence in iOS 26 enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the device, making interactions more intuitive. Features like Live Translation and enhanced messaging capabilities address the need for effective and personalized communication. Advanced privacy controls empower users to manage their digital environment, ensuring a secure and distraction-free experience. Overall, iOS continues to set the standard for mobile operating systems by combining innovation with user-centric design.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, Apple iOS is:
- Slower to reach roi
- Better at support
- More usable
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Apple iOS with other alternatives:**
- [Apple iOS vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Apple iOS vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-ubuntu)
- [Apple iOS vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-7)
- [Apple iOS vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-centos)
- [Apple iOS vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Apple iOS vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-11)
- [Apple iOS vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-apple-ios)
- [Apple iOS vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-chrome-os)
- [Apple iOS vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-8)

  ### 4. [Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-7/reviews)
By Microsoft
**Average Rating:** 4.2/5
**Total Reviews:** 900
Windows 7, released by Microsoft in October 2009, is a desktop operating system designed to enhance user experience and system performance. Building upon its predecessor, Windows Vista, it introduced a more intuitive interface and improved functionality, catering to both home and business users. Key Features and Functionality: - Redesigned Taskbar: The new taskbar allows users to pin applications for quick access and provides live previews of open windows, streamlining navigation. - Aero Snap and Aero Shake: These window management features enable users to easily organize open windows by snapping them to screen edges or minimizing all but the active window with a simple shake gesture. - HomeGroup: Simplifies home networking by allowing users to share files and printers across multiple PCs effortlessly. - Libraries: Aggregates files from various locations into unified views, making it easier to manage documents, music, pictures, and videos. - Improved Performance: Optimized for faster boot times and efficient resource management, Windows 7 delivers a more responsive computing experience. - Enhanced Security: Features like the Action Center provide a centralized location for security and maintenance notifications, while User Account Control (UAC) has been refined to be less intrusive. Primary Value and User Solutions: Windows 7 addresses the shortcomings of previous operating systems by offering a more stable and user-friendly environment. Its enhanced performance and intuitive features reduce system crashes and improve productivity. The streamlined interface and advanced window management tools allow users to multitask more effectively. Additionally, improved networking capabilities simplify the sharing of resources among multiple devices, making it an ideal solution for both personal and professional use.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, Windows 7 is:
- Slower to reach roi
- Easier to set up
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-7-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Windows 7 with other alternatives:**
- [Windows 7 vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 7 vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-7-vs-windows-8)

  ### 5. [CentOS](https://www.g2.com/products/centos/reviews)
By CentOS
**Average Rating:** 4.4/5
**Total Reviews:** 424
CentOS is a community-driven, free software project that provides a robust and reliable Linux distribution, serving as a foundational platform for open-source communities, cloud providers, hosting services, and scientific data processing. Derived from Fedora Linux, CentOS Stream offers a continuously delivered distribution that tracks just ahead of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), with major releases every three years and each maintained for five years. This structure allows CentOS Stream to function as a production operating system, a development environment, or a preview of upcoming RHEL releases. Key Features and Functionality: - Continuous Delivery: CentOS Stream provides a rolling-release model, delivering updates that precede RHEL's official releases, ensuring users have access to the latest features and improvements. - Community Collaboration: The project fosters a collaborative environment where Special Interest Groups (SIGs) develop and package software tailored to specific needs, such as cloud infrastructure, storage solutions, and virtualization technologies. - Enterprise Compatibility: By closely tracking RHEL, CentOS Stream ensures compatibility and stability, making it suitable for enterprise deployments and development environments. Primary Value and User Solutions: CentOS Stream addresses the need for a stable yet forward-looking Linux distribution that bridges the gap between development and production environments. It offers a reliable platform for developers to test and deploy applications that will be compatible with future RHEL releases, thereby reducing the time and effort required for migration and ensuring smoother transitions. Additionally, the active community and SIGs provide specialized solutions and support, enhancing the overall ecosystem and catering to diverse user requirements.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, CentOS is:
- Better at meeting requirements
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare CentOS with other alternatives:**
- [CentOS vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [CentOS vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-ubuntu)
- [CentOS vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-centos)
- [CentOS vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-windows-7)
- [CentOS vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-oracle-linux)
- [CentOS vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-windows-11)
- [CentOS vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-centos)
- [CentOS vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-chrome-os)
- [CentOS vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-windows-8)

  ### 6. [Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/oracle-linux/reviews)
By Oracle
**Average Rating:** 4.4/5
**Total Reviews:** 348
Oracle Linux brings the latest Linux innovations to market, delivering extreme performance, advanced scalability, and reliability for enterprise applications and systems along with worldwide, enterprise-class, low-cost support. Optimized for enterprise workloads, Oracle Linux is the only operating system to offer zero-downtime updates.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, Oracle Linux is:
- Slower to reach roi
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Oracle Linux with other alternatives:**
- [Oracle Linux vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-ubuntu)
- [Oracle Linux vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-7)
- [Oracle Linux vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-11)
- [Oracle Linux vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Oracle Linux vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-8)

  ### 7. [Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-11/reviews)
By Microsoft
**Average Rating:** 4.5/5
**Total Reviews:** 4,308
Windows 11 is Microsoft's latest operating system, designed to provide a seamless and intuitive user experience across various devices. With a fresh, modern interface and enhanced performance, Windows 11 aims to boost productivity, creativity, and connectivity for users worldwide. Key Features and Functionality: - Redesigned Start Menu: Centered on the taskbar, the new Start Menu offers a clean layout with customizable sections for favorite apps, enabling quicker access to essential tools. - Snap Assist and Virtual Desktops: Enhance multitasking by organizing open windows into aligned grids and creating personalized desktops for different tasks, such as work, gaming, or personal use. - Integrated Microsoft Teams: Seamlessly connect with friends, family, and colleagues through chat, voice, or video directly from the taskbar, facilitating effortless communication. - Widgets: Stay updated with personalized content and news feeds powered by AI, accessible directly from the desktop. - Gaming Enhancements: Experience immersive gaming with technologies like DirectX 12 Ultimate, DirectStorage for faster load times, and Auto HDR for vivid visuals. - Enhanced Security: Benefit from built-in security features, including biometric logins, encrypted authentication, and advanced antivirus defenses to protect against cyber threats. Primary Value and User Solutions: Windows 11 addresses the evolving needs of users by offering a streamlined interface that simplifies navigation and enhances productivity. Its multitasking capabilities, such as Snap Assist and Virtual Desktops, allow users to manage multiple tasks efficiently. The integration of Microsoft Teams directly into the taskbar ensures seamless communication, while gaming enhancements provide a superior entertainment experience. Additionally, robust security measures safeguard user data, offering peace of mind in an increasingly digital world. Overall, Windows 11 delivers a comprehensive solution that balances functionality, security, and user-friendly design.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, Windows 11 is:
- Slower to reach roi
- Easier to set up
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Windows 11 with other alternatives:**
- [Windows 11 vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-windows-7)
- [Windows 11 vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-11)
- [Windows 11 vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-windows-8)

  ### 8. [Android](https://www.g2.com/products/android/reviews)
By Google
**Average Rating:** 4.6/5
**Total Reviews:** 1,280
Android Enterprise Management is a comprehensive solution designed to simplify the deployment, management, and security of Android devices within business environments. It offers a suite of tools that enable organizations to efficiently configure devices, enforce security policies, and manage applications across their workforce. This platform supports various device management scenarios, including employee-owned devices, company-owned devices, and dedicated devices for specific tasks. Key Features and Functionality: - Zero-Touch Enrollment: Facilitates the rapid deployment of devices by allowing them to be configured remotely upon first boot, reducing manual setup time. - Work Profiles: Creates a clear separation between work and personal data on devices, ensuring corporate information remains secure while respecting user privacy. - Managed Google Play: Enables IT administrators to distribute and manage applications efficiently, providing employees with access to approved apps while maintaining control over app installations. - Comprehensive Security Controls: Offers robust security features, including enforcing lock screens, encryption, and the ability to remotely wipe data from lost or stolen devices. - Flexible Management Options: Supports various device management modes, such as fully managed devices for work-only use and dedicated devices locked to specific functions. Primary Value and Solutions Provided: Android Enterprise Management addresses the challenges businesses face in managing a diverse range of Android devices by offering a unified platform that enhances security, streamlines device deployment, and simplifies application management. By leveraging these capabilities, organizations can ensure that their mobile workforce operates efficiently and securely, regardless of device ownership or usage scenarios.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, Android is:
- Better at meeting requirements
- Easier to set up
- More usable
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Android with other alternatives:**
- [Android vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Android vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-ubuntu)
- [Android vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-apple-ios)
- [Android vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-7)
- [Android vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-centos)
- [Android vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Android vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-11)
- [Android vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-chrome-os)
- [Android vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-8)

  ### 9. [Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/products/chrome-os/reviews)
By Google
**Average Rating:** 4.5/5
**Total Reviews:** 732
ChromeOS is a lightweight, cloud-centric operating system developed by Google, designed to provide a fast, secure, and user-friendly computing experience. Built upon the Linux kernel, it primarily utilizes the Google Chrome web browser as its main interface, emphasizing web applications and cloud storage. Since its debut in 2011, ChromeOS has powered a range of devices, including Chromebooks, Chromeboxes, and Chromebits, catering to users seeking simplicity and efficiency in their digital tasks. Key Features and Functionality: - Seamless Integration with Google Services: ChromeOS offers built-in access to Google applications such as Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos, ensuring a cohesive and synchronized user experience across devices. - Support for Android and Linux Applications: Users can install and run a vast array of Android apps from the Google Play Store, as well as Linux applications, expanding the system's versatility and functionality. - Enhanced Security Measures: With features like verified boot, automatic updates, and sandboxing, ChromeOS provides robust protection against malware and security threats, minimizing the need for additional antivirus software. - Optimized Performance and Battery Life: Designed for efficiency, ChromeOS devices typically offer quick boot times and extended battery life, making them ideal for on-the-go usage. - Cloud-Based Storage and Synchronization: Emphasizing cloud storage, ChromeOS ensures that user data is accessible from any device with internet connectivity, promoting flexibility and ease of access. Primary Value and User Solutions: ChromeOS addresses the needs of users seeking a straightforward, secure, and efficient computing platform. Its cloud-centric approach reduces reliance on local storage, facilitating seamless access to files and applications from various devices. The integration with Google services and support for a wide range of applications cater to both productivity and entertainment needs. Additionally, the system's emphasis on security and automatic updates provides peace of mind, particularly for users concerned about online threats. Overall, ChromeOS offers a streamlined and reliable computing experience suitable for students, professionals, and casual users alike.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, Chrome OS is:
- Easier to set up
- More usable
- Better at support
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Chrome OS with other alternatives:**
- [Chrome OS vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-red-hat-enterprise-linux)
- [Chrome OS vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-ubuntu)
- [Chrome OS vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-chrome-os)
- [Chrome OS vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-7)
- [Chrome OS vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-chrome-os)
- [Chrome OS vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-oracle-linux)
- [Chrome OS vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-11)
- [Chrome OS vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-chrome-os)
- [Chrome OS vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-8)

  ### 10. [Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/products/windows-8/reviews)
By Microsoft
**Average Rating:** 3.7/5
**Total Reviews:** 580
Windows 8 is an operating system developed by Microsoft, released in October 2012, designed to provide a modern and dynamic user experience across various devices, including desktops, laptops, and tablets. It introduced a new user interface with live tiles, offering real-time updates and a more interactive experience. The system also featured the Windows Store, enabling users to download and install a wide range of applications. Key Features and Functionality: - Modern User Interface: Incorporates live tiles that display real-time information, enhancing user engagement. - Windows Store: Provides access to a vast array of applications, facilitating easy download and installation. - Enhanced Connectivity: Improved networking technologies and power management for better connectivity and device availability. - Touch and Gesture Support: Optimized for touch-enabled devices, offering a more natural and intuitive user experience. - App Packaging and Deployment: Enables developers to produce, consume, or interact with app packages, streamlining the development process. Primary Value and User Solutions: Windows 8 aimed to bridge the gap between traditional computing and the growing demand for mobile and touch-enabled devices. By introducing a unified interface and enhancing app accessibility through the Windows Store, it provided users with a versatile platform suitable for both work and entertainment. The system's focus on connectivity and power efficiency addressed the needs of modern users seeking seamless integration across multiple devices.


Reviewers say compared to Windows Server, Windows 8 is:
- Slower to reach roi
Categories in common with Windows Server: [Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

**Compare:** [Windows Server vs Windows 8](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-8-vs-tidal-media-inc-windows-server)
**Compare Windows 8 with other alternatives:**
- [Windows 8 vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/red-hat-enterprise-linux-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/compare/ubuntu-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Apple iOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/apple-ios-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Windows 7](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-7-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs CentOS](https://www.g2.com/compare/centos-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Oracle Linux](https://www.g2.com/compare/oracle-linux-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Windows 11](https://www.g2.com/compare/windows-11-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Android](https://www.g2.com/compare/android-vs-windows-8)
- [Windows 8 vs Chrome OS](https://www.g2.com/compare/chrome-os-vs-windows-8)


---
## Windows Server Alternatives FAQs

### Which Operating System tools do reviewers recommend instead of Windows Server?

Reviewers recommend [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) for its stability, security features like SELinux, long-term support, and strong enterprise ecosystem integration. It is favored for mission-critical environments and cloud compatibility. [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews) is recommended for its user-friendly interface, extensive software repository, strong community support, and suitability for development and server tasks. It is appreciated for being lightweight, free, and highly customizable. For organizations with budget constraints or fewer employees, open-source solutions like OpenLDAP are suggested as cost-effective alternatives to Windows Server.



### What are the best alternatives to Windows Server?

The best alternatives to Windows Server according to G2 user reviews are [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) with a 4.6/5 rating from 975 reviews, and [Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews) with a 4.5/5 rating from 2393 reviews. Both alternatives offer strong stability, security, and community support, with Ubuntu being noted for its ease of use and free, open-source nature, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux praised for enterprise-grade support and long-term lifecycle management.



### How does Windows Server compare to Red Hat Enterprise Linux?

According to G2 data, [Windows Server](https://www.g2.com/products/tidal-media-inc-windows-server/reviews) holds a slight advantage over [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) in usability (9.2 vs 8.4), ease of setup (9.1 vs 8.5), ease of administration (9.1 vs 8.5), and better at meeting requirements (9.1 vs 9.0). However, Red Hat Enterprise Linux scores marginally higher in better support (8.8 vs 8.6) and ease of doing business with (8.8 vs 8.9, nearly tied). Both products have high average ratings, with Windows Server at 4.5/5 from 254 reviews and Red Hat Enterprise Linux at 4.6/5 from 975 reviews. Users praise Windows Server for its reliability (16 mentions), compatibility (15 mentions), user-friendly interface (12 mentions), powerful features like Active Directory and Azure hybrid cloud integration, and ease of management. Its GUI and centralized management tools simplify administration, especially in Microsoft-centric environments. However, Windows Server is criticized for high licensing costs (23 mentions), frequent and disruptive updates requiring reboots (9 mentions), and resource intensity compared to Linux alternatives. Red Hat Enterprise Linux is lauded for its rock-solid stability (55 mentions), enterprise-grade security (45 mentions), long-term support, and excellent customer support (42 mentions). It excels in predictable performance for mission-critical workloads and strong security features like SELinux. The main drawbacks are its higher subscription costs (28 mentions), steeper learning curve (10 mentions), slower adoption of newer software versions, and complexity in subscription management. RHEL is preferred for environments prioritizing stability, security, and open-source flexibility, while Windows Server is favored for ease of use and integration within Microsoft ecosystems.



### Why do users choose Red Hat Enterprise Linux over Windows Server?

Users choose [Red Hat Enterprise Linux](https://www.g2.com/products/red-hat-enterprise-linux/reviews) over Windows Server primarily for its unmatched stability and enterprise-grade security. With 55 mentions of stability and 45 of security, RHEL provides a predictable, reliable platform ideal for mission-critical production workloads. Its 10-year lifecycle and strict ABI stability ensure that applications and infrastructure remain consistent without unexpected disruptions during updates. Red Hat's comprehensive support system, praised in 42 reviews, offers expert assistance and timely security patches that reduce operational risks. The integration with automation tools like Ansible and container platforms enhances management efficiency. Additionally, RHEL's open-source nature and extensive ecosystem compatibility make it highly customizable and suitable for hybrid cloud environments. Despite a higher subscription cost noted in 28 reviews, users value the long-term support, security features like SELinux, and the ability to maintain compliance with industry standards. Organizations that prioritize system reliability, security, and vendor-backed support select Red Hat Enterprise Linux to minimize downtime and safeguard critical applications, making it a preferred choice for enterprise-grade Linux deployments.




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