Linux on a virtual server provides quick start, predictable performance, and full control. It's the foundation for websites, APIs, backends, containers, and internal services. Below—brief and to the point, focused on THE.Hosting stack.
What is Linux in VPS Context
Linux is a family of server operating systems with shared kernel and different distributions. We use clean, supported images without unnecessary software:
- Debian 11/12
- Ubuntu 22.04/24.04 LTS
- AlmaLinux 8/9
- Rocky Linux 8/9
Image reinstallation through panel takes a couple of minutes. Root access included.
Why Linux is Practical
Performance
Linux efficiently uses RAM and CPU, handles peak loads, and runs stably even on small configurations.
Security
Signed repositories, regular kernel patches, standard protection tools: UFW/firewalld, Fail2ban, SELinux in RHEL branch.
Stack Compatibility
Nginx or Apache, PHP-FPM, Python, Node.js, PostgreSQL, MySQL/MariaDB, Redis—everything installs from repositories or containers.
Automation
Systemd units, Ansible, Terraform, Docker/Podman. Infrastructure described as code and reproduced without surprises.
How to Choose Distribution
Ubuntu LTS — quick start, tons of documentation, PPAs and ready guides.
Debian — conservative updates, years of stability, minimalism.
AlmaLinux/Rocky — RHEL ecosystem, SELinux by default, enterprise standards.
Unsure? Take Ubuntu 22.04 LTS. Need more conservative update policy—Debian 12.
Typical Scenarios
E-commerce store: Ubuntu LTS + Nginx + PHP-FPM + MariaDB + Redis.
Python/Node.js API: Debian 12 + Nginx reverse-proxy + PostgreSQL.
Containerization: AlmaLinux 9 + Docker + Traefik or Nginx Proxy.
CI/CD: Rocky 9 + GitLab Runner/Docker, Kubernetes agents as you scale.
Administration Without Pain
- SSH and access keys, full root
- Service management:
systemctl - Updates:
apt upgradeordnf upgrade - Backups: snapshots in panel + database and file backups
- Logs:
journalctland/var/log/*. Metrics—Prometheus + Node Exporter
10-Minute Security Checklist
- Enable SSH key login, disable password authentication
- Configure UFW/firewalld: open ports 22, 80, 443
- Install Fail2ban
- Enable automatic or scheduled updates
- Issue HTTPS via Let's Encrypt and SNI
- Set up disk, CPU, RAM monitoring and alerts
Network and Addresses
Each VPS on THE.Hosting gets 1 IPv4 free.
IPv6 available additionally—/64 for €1 per month.
For public projects, one IPv4 is enough: dozens of domains work on one address via virtual hosts and SNI.
Conclusion
Linux on VPS is a rational production foundation: fast, stable, secure, and without unnecessary magic. Choose distribution, enable basic security policies, and get platform ready to scale.
Ready to deploy Linux server with clean IPv4 and predictable performance? Launch THE.Hosting configurator, and if you need advice choosing between Ubuntu, Debian, AlmaLinux and Rocky—we'll suggest optimal option for your stack and load.
FAQ
Can I change OS after launch?
Yes. Image reinstallation through panel, backup data first.
Do I need control panel?
Not required. Most admins manage with SSH and IaC. If GUI is more convenient—install DirectAdmin or Plesk on supported OS.
Which filesystem to choose?
Default is ext4. For large databases sometimes XFS is used. ZFS applied selectively when snapshots and separate storage policies matter.
Will Linux work for WordPress and 1C-Bitrix?
Yes. Nginx/Apache, PHP-FPM and MariaDB/PostgreSQL work predictably, caching and Redis connect without hassle.