Linux Vs Windows for Startups: How RHCSA can help enterprises save money
Published On: 25 April 2025
Objective
For startups, especially those operating on a tight budget, every penny matters. One of the most critical decisions which can impact a startup is choosing the right operating system (OS) for the infrastructure. While both Linux and Windows have their pros and cons, Linux, particularly Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) often provides startups with more cost effective, scalable solutions. Additionally, leveraging the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) Certification can help enterprises save money by equipping their teams with the enterprise to maximize the benefits of Linux.
In this blog we will explore the financial advantages of choosing Linux over Windows for startups and how obtaining an RHCSA Certification can directly contribute to long term cost saving.
Linux Vs Windows: Cost Breakdown for Startups
When making the decision between Linux and Windows, cost of both the software associated services are crucial factors.
1. Licensing Costs
- One of the biggest differences between Linux and Windows is the cost of licensing. Windows especially for enterprise use require notable licensing fees for operating systems as well as other additional features like Windows Server.
- Whereas, most Linux distributions including RHEL, are open source and free to use. Red Hat Offers Paid Subscription plans for support and service but these fees are much affordable compared to Windows licensing cost. For startups that need to cut costs, Linux offers more budget friendly options.
2. Hardware Requirements
- Windows demand more powerful hardware to operate smoothly which is directly linked with higher upfront cost for servers, workstations and other critical instruments.
- Linux, on other hand, is known for its light weight nature and can run older or less powerful hardware without compromising performance. Which makes Linux an ideal choice for startups.
3. Support and Maintenance
- Where Windows support options often come at an additional cost. Startups relying on Windows may need to purchase extended support or hire external experts to maintain their infrastructure.
- In contrast, Linux systems, particularly RHEL comes with active community support and Red Hat offers professional support through affordable subscription services. With Linux startups can leverage open source tools and forms to troubleshoot issues which reduces reliance on expensive third party systems. RHCSA Certified professionals can manage and maintain the system in house, saving money on external IT- Consultants.
Tabular comparison of Linux and Windows for startups:
| Category | Linux | Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (most distributions; Red Hat has subscription plans for enterprise) | Paid (Windows Server, licenses per user/server) |
| Initial Setup Cost | Low | High |
| Hardware Requirements | Lower, can run on older hardware | Higher, requires more resources (CPU, RAM, storage) |
| Market Share (Server) | 70% of all web servers (e.g., Apache, NGINX, etc.) | 30% of web servers (e.g., IIS) |
| Market Share (Desktop) | 2-3% globally (growing in developer, server, and enterprise markets) | 76% of the global desktop market (as of 2024) |
| Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) | Generally lower long-term costs due to no license fees and low hardware requirements | Higher TCO due to licensing, support, and hardware needs |
| Security Vulnerabilities (2023) | 204 (approx.) identified CVEs in 2023 (Linux Kernel, libraries) | 800+ (approx.) identified CVEs in 2023 (Windows Server, OS, applications) |
| Total Market Usage (2024) | Linux usage in enterprise: ~25% globally (with RHEL leading in enterprise) | Windows usage in enterprise: ~60% globally (with Windows Server dominating) |
| Automation/Management Tools | Strong tools like Ansible, Puppet, Chef for automation | PowerShell, Windows Admin Center; fewer open-source tools compared to Linux |
How RHCSA Can Help Enterprises Save Money
A Red Hat Certified System Administrator certification demonstrates an individual's expertise in managing RHEL systems. RHCSA professionals possess knowledge required to handle key administration tasks like system installation, network configuration, security management and performance optimalization. Here is how RHCSA certified members can help save money:
1. In House Expertise = Less Dependence on external IT support
Startups can not afford expensive IT consultants and relying on third party services can lead to escalating costs. An RHCSA certified administrator brings the expertise to manage Linux systems in house. These professionals can handle everything from server configuration to troubleshooting and security.
Minimizing reliance on external vendors, startups can keep additional cost low.
2. Enhanced Security and Compliance
Security breaches can be devastating for a startup, both in terms of finance and reputation. RHCSA professionals are trained to Secure Linux Systems, applying best practices to prevent untheorized access and manage firewalls. They are well-versed in ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations which significantly reduces costly fines or data breaches.
3. Efficient resource management
An RHCSA-certified professional knows how to manage system resources efficiently. From ensuring optimal server performance to automating tasks can make startup infrastructure more streamlined and cost effective.
Long Term Saving with Linux and RHCSA Certification
The benefits of choosing Linux over Windows extend beyond the initial cost of savings. Here is a tabular overview of long term savings startups can achieve using Linux:
| Category | Linux | Windows |
| Initial Software Cost | Low and Free | High |
| Ongoing Licensing Fees | No repeating costs | Ongoing costs |
| Security and Compliance | Increased security | Higher security risk |
| IT Staff Efficiency | More efficient IT staff | Less efficient IT staff |
| System Performance | Optimized performance | More resources required |
| Cloud and Automation Savings | Low-cost cloud integration | Higher cloud costs |
| Security Breach Costs | Reduced breach costs | Higher breach costs |
Conclusion: A Smart Investment in Startups
For startups cost efficiency is essential. Choosing Linux and investing in RHCSA certification for your team can provide significant savings. By empowering your team with RHCSA knowledge you are not just cutting costs you are setting your startup for sustainable growth.
At RHCSAGURU we believe that combination of Linux and RHCSA certified talent is a winning formula for startups. Train your employees by setting their RHCSA path journey by joining RHCSAGURU . You can improve your employees proficiency as a Red Hat Certified System Administrator. RHCSAGuru offers a hands-on lab to further your practice and preparation giving you an edge with real world scenarios.