Apache vs IIS?

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Swede78
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Apache vs IIS?

Post by Swede78 »

Which server software is better when it comes to the following issues?:

security
ease of setup
ease of administering
support
any other issues that should be addressed

I want to redo my web sites using MySQL and PHP. They currently run under IIS using Access and ASP.

Does anyone know what the advantage of using Apache over IIS is for PHP/MySQL web pages?

I'm just trying to figure out if I should bother switching from IIS to Apache.

Thanks
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daven
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Post by daven »

I cannot think of any reason to use IIS if you are going to be running PHP/MySQL.
1. Apache is more secure (well, if you set it up correctly it is).
2. Getting help with Apache is rather easy. Just look online for forums.
3. I have found that PHP tends to run smoother with Apache than IIS (then again, that might be because I have Apache on FreeBSD, as opposed to IIS on a WinNT box).
4. Setting up apache is not difficult, especially if you are just tossing it on a windows box. There are set-up utilities out there which will do everything for you.
5. Administering apache does take a bit more knowledge, but it is easy to pick up.
6. Obligatory anti-BillGates comments.
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twigletmac
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Post by twigletmac »

Apache is the better software but do make sure that you understand what you're doing when you set it up otherwise you may end up with something no more secure than IIS.

Mac
fractalvibes
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Post by fractalvibes »

Occasionally I have to perform some administrative tasks on our Team's IIS server,and at times instruct our lan/wan folks on installing home-grown VB Dlls and third-party software on our production IIS server. Mostly the various IIS management consoles are really not too bad to work with, though my biggest hassle has been the common "DLL-HELL" syndrome. I have not had the occaision to deal with Apache in a similar manner, but I would agree with Mac and daven that Apache seems a more mature and stable server, and a more "Native" platform from which to run MySql/PHP. As was alluded to, no server software is just "plug and play", you need to study up and ask plenty of questions to get it set up properly.

My personal site runs on Apache/PHP/Mysql on rented space. I am doing a site for a client on IIS/PHP/MySql/ASP on a different host. The former is much easier to deal with. The latter are understandably a little paranoid when it comes to security...at work they are paranoid about security.

Phil J.
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