Top Windows Server 2019 Alternatives for Your Business
Windows Server 2019 offers robust features for integrating Azure services like Azure Backup and disaster recovery, making it a powerful solution for many businesses. However, for various reasons, including cost, platform preference, or specific feature needs, many organizations seek a suitable Windows Server 2019 alternative. This article explores some of the best replacements available, catering to a wide range of requirements from open-source flexibility to specialized server solutions.
Top Windows Server 2019 Alternatives
Whether you're looking for a free, open-source solution, a specialized server, or a different commercial option, there are numerous powerful alternatives to Windows Server 2019 that can meet your infrastructure needs. Dive into our curated list to find the perfect fit.
FreeNAS
FreeNAS is a robust, free, and open-source operating system based on BSD, designed for network-attached storage (NAS). It's an excellent Windows Server 2019 alternative for those prioritizing data sharing and storage, offering features like lightweight operation, security focus, stability, and virtualization capabilities on virtually any hardware platform.
Ubuntu Server
Ubuntu Server is a leading free and open-source Linux-based platform for scale-out computing, making it a compelling Windows Server 2019 alternative. It's ideal for deploying OpenStack clouds, Hadoop, and other large-scale infrastructures, offering strong Linux features and ARM support.
Univention Corporate Server
Univention Corporate Server (UCS) is an open, innovative, free, and open-source platform based on Debian that efficiently operates and manages server applications and complete IT infrastructures for Linux, MS Windows, and Mac OS X. As a Windows Server 2019 alternative, it boasts extensive features including Active Directory integration, DHCP, DNS management, single sign-on, Docker support, LDAP services, and server management.
Windows Server 2012
Windows Server 2012, a commercial Windows-based server, serves as an earlier iteration and a direct alternative to Windows Server 2019 for those who prefer the Windows ecosystem but may have different licensing or feature requirements. It includes Active Directory integration, data deduplication, and virtualization capabilities.
MDaemon Messaging Server
MDaemon Messaging Server is a commercial Windows-based email server solution for virtual, on-premise, or hosted deployments. As a Windows Server 2019 alternative focusing on messaging, it offers integrated webmail, Dropbox integration, encrypted email, group chat, IMAP support, and Outlook integration for comprehensive email management.
Amahi Home Server
Amahi Home Server is a free and open-source solution designed for home and small office environments, supporting Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS. It's a user-friendly Windows Server 2019 alternative that simplifies server management, offering features like Nextcloud integration, backup, dynamic DNS, file sharing, music streaming, networking, and VPN.
macOS Server
macOS Server is a commercial Mac-based solution that transforms a Mac into a powerful server for businesses, home offices, or schools. It’s an easy-to-install Windows Server 2019 alternative for Mac users, providing robust features like backup, operating system capabilities, and virtualization.
SME Server
SME Server is a leading free and open-source Linux distribution specifically for small and medium enterprises. As a strong Windows Server 2019 alternative, it comes preconfigured with common functionalities such as Active Directory integration, database support, DHCP, DNS, file sharing, FTP, integrated spam protection, email server, MySQL, PHP, Samba, SSH, VPN, web filter, and web hosting, making it a comprehensive solution.
Windows Server Essentials
Windows Server Essentials (formerly Windows Small Business Server) is a commercial Windows-based server solution designed and priced for small businesses. It offers an easy-to-use and affordable alternative to Windows Server 2019, providing essential server management and monitoring capabilities for smaller scale operations.
Choosing the right server solution depends on your organization's specific needs, budget, and technical expertise. By exploring these diverse Windows Server 2019 alternatives, you can find a platform that aligns perfectly with your infrastructure goals, whether you prioritize open-source flexibility, specific features, or a particular operating system environment.