Most people want to have a website, but having one means managing a server. And that may seem painful and costly at first sight, right? Let me tell you that there are Graphic User Interfaces (GUIs) that can help you when managing Linux servers by just installing them. With a Linux Server Web GUI, you can do as much as you want on your server with just a few clicks, and all of this in your web browser; there is no need to access the server command line.
This blog will review GUI examples for managing Linux servers. The process can be made simpler by choosing the right Linux server web GUI that suits your project’s specific needs. So, let’s go!
Web-based Linux server management involves managing Linux servers through graphical interfaces rather than the command line, simplifying tasks such as configuration, monitoring, and administration.
Web Host Manager is designed for system administrators and provides full control of the server as if you were logged into the command line. It allows web hosting providers to add unlimited hosting accounts, new technologies, applications, security, etc.
WHM allows to the host provider the same functions as it was a cPanel but with full system access to it. Credentials for authentication, support sections, security, server configurations, and everything for their clients. They can set up different hosting plans, according to the client needs and server requirements for everyone. Set reseller plans is very simple as setting a cPanel account giving certain privileges to them.
WHM (Web Host Manager) is commonly used by web hosting companies to streamline the management of large numbers of client accounts. For instance, resellers use WHM to create and manage multiple client cPanel accounts, each with its own set of resources like bandwidth and storage, allowing them to offer tailored hosting services. WHM also simplifies tasks like adding domains, managing DNS settings, and configuring email accounts for different clients, all from one interface.
Another use case for WHM is handling server maintenance and optimization. Hosting administrators rely on WHM to monitor server performance, adjust configurations for optimal speed, and implement security patches as needed. It also enables administrators to automate tasks like regular backups, making sure that critical data is saved without manual intervention, which is crucial for maintaining uptime and reliability.
This image shows most of the WHM interface
cPanel is a popular web-based control panel that simplifies website management for users of all skill levels. Offered by most web hosting providers, cPanel provides an intuitive interface for website owners to perform essential tasks such as managing domains, creating email accounts, and uploading files. Whether setting up a new website, managing databases, or installing CMS platforms like WordPress, cPanel makes the process fast and straightforward, giving users full control over their website’s functionality with minimal technical expertise required.
Regarding functionality, cPanel allows users to handle everything from file management to security. It includes tools for creating and managing FTP accounts, setting up databases, and configuring automatic backups. Users can also install third-party software like shopping carts or SSL certificates with just a few clicks. This flexibility makes cPanel a valuable tool for both beginners and experienced developers, as it offers a centralized hub for all aspects of website management.
For server management, cPanel offers several advantages, especially for administrators and hosting providers. Its robust account management system allows administrators to allocate resources such as disk space and bandwidth across multiple sites with ease. Additionally, cPanel’s built-in security features, like password-protected directories, IP blockers, and automatic updates, ensure that websites are secure without requiring manual configuration.
Another key benefit of cPanel is its ease of automation. Hosting providers can set up scheduled backups, manage server-wide settings, and ensure regular software updates, all through a user-friendly dashboard. This automation not only reduces the workload for server administrators but also enhances server stability, as key maintenance tasks are handled in the background, minimizing downtime and preventing issues before they arise.
Cpanel Domain Owner Interface
Unlike other control panels, Virtualmin provides comprehensive management of not only websites and databases but also the entire Linux server environment, all from a single, user-friendly interface. Users can efficiently manage virtual domains, mailboxes, and applications, while also having complete control over server configurations.
One of Virtualmin’s unique capabilities is its deep integration with Linux systems, offering advanced users and administrators more granular control over their server environment. This includes features like server-side scripting support, advanced security configurations, and fine-tuned performance optimization. Additionally, Virtualmin supports a wide range of applications, making it an excellent choice for hosting diverse web applications and services. For users who need more scalability, paid versions of Virtualmin allow the management of up to unlimited domains, backed by premium support options.
Virtualmin is ideal for users or businesses that need greater flexibility and control over their hosting environment, especially for Linux-based systems. Virtualmin is particularly suitable for system administrators who prefer an open-source solution with extensive configuration options and for those who want to manage their entire server including mail, DNS, databases, and applications from one interface.
It’s a great alternative to cPanel or other control panels when a highly customizable and cost-effective solution is needed, particularly for those managing multiple domains or providing hosting services on Linux systems.
Virtualmin User interface
Webmin is a versatile, open-source web-based control panel for Linux that simplifies system administration through an intuitive interface. Core features include the ability to set up user accounts, manage DNS, configure Apache, and control file sharing, all through a browser. By eliminating the need for manual configuration file edits, Webmin allows users to handle essential administrative tasks with ease and efficiency.
Additionally, Webmin supports remote management, enabling administrators to control servers from any location. This flexibility makes it ideal for maintaining systems without needing physical access, streamlining server management across distributed environments. Webmin’s browser-based design also means that it’s compatible with any operating system, as long as there’s internet access.
In Linux server administration, Webmin’s structured permissions offer a unique advantage. Users can manage aspects within their allotted domains, allowing for safe customization without server-wide impact. This ensures stability, as users can control settings relevant to their role without overstepping into critical system functions.
Furthermore, Webmin is particularly well-suited for admins who need centralized control over essential services like databases, mail servers, and user roles. By providing a secure way to perform updates and manage resources, Webmin offers a robust solution that’s scalable to varying administrative needs within Linux-based environments.
This image shows the OpenSource Webmin Control Panel Interface.
cPanel is known for its user-friendly and comprehensive control over website and hosting management. It allows users to manage email accounts, databases, files, domains, and security settings with ease. Its support for software installation—such as content management systems and shopping carts—makes it ideal for website owners who need a broad range of pre-configured tools.
Virtualmin provides similar capabilities but with a stronger focus on flexibility and Linux integration. Designed for users managing virtual domains on Linux servers, Virtualmin supports multi-domain management, advanced security options, and multiple PHP versions. It’s particularly beneficial for administrators who need fine-grained control over server settings.
Webmin, in contrast, is a web-based interface tailored for Linux server administration rather than specific website management. It offers fundamental tools like user account setup, Apache and DNS configuration, and file sharing. While it lacks some of the built-in website-specific features of cPanel or Virtualmin, Webmin excels in server and service management.
cPanel is renowned for its simplicity, making it highly accessible even to beginners. Its intuitive layout and extensive documentation help users quickly learn to manage their hosting environment. Tasks like setting up email, configuring databases, and installing applications are made straightforward, ideal for users with minimal technical expertise.
Virtualmin has a moderate learning curve and is more suited to users with some Linux or server management experience. Its interface is intuitive but requires familiarity with server settings and configurations, making it a better fit for administrators or technical users who need more control over resources and server behavior.
Webmin requires a basic understanding of Linux system administration but is generally easy to navigate. The interface is clean and logical, though it lacks the user-friendly polish of cPanel. Webmin’s design is more geared toward Linux administrators who need direct access to core server functions rather than a simplified interface for website management.
cPanel is primarily designed for Linux-based systems and is widely compatible with CentOS, CloudLinux, and AlmaLinux, though it is not available for all Linux distributions. Its requirements include a minimum amount of RAM and CPU, depending on the version and number of accounts, making it best suited for dedicated or VPS environments.
Virtualmin is also Linux-focused and supports several distributions, including CentOS, Debian, and Ubuntu. It’s available in both free and paid versions, with the paid version adding enhanced support and unlimited domains. Virtualmin’s requirements vary based on the Linux distribution and the number of domains managed, making it versatile across different Linux setups.
Webmin is highly flexible and compatible with nearly all Linux distributions. Its low system requirements make it a lightweight option for administrators who need to manage Linux servers remotely or locally without additional strain on resources, ideal for small to medium-sized setups.
Managing Linux servers through web-based control panels can greatly streamline administration tasks, but following best practices is essential to ensure performance, security, and reliability. Here are five key practices to optimize your web-based Linux server management:
Following these practices will help you maintain a secure, efficient, and reliable web-hosted Linux environment.
Utilizing user interfaces that allow you to control and manage your server needs is a huge help to website owners who don’t know how to use the command line or for people who do not want to get into trouble with server needs or anything. You can always find well-known hosting providers that will offer you these tools to make your experience smoother.
If you encounter any troubles with these control panels, the ClickIT team is always here, ready to help you ASAP. Our Agile Team also includes leading IT experts in application migration in the cloud, web security, web development, IT automation, clustering, scalability, and near-shore support.
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