Table of contents

What is Windows 10?What is Windows Server?Key differences between Windows 10 and Windows Server on a VPSWhen would someone choose Windows 10 on a VPS?When is Windows Server the right choice?Performance and security: why Windows Server usually winsCost comparison and licensingUse case comparison chartGetting startedAdditional resources

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VPS → Windows 10 vs Windows Server

Windows VPS OS: Windows 10 vs Windows Server

Most people know Windows 10 as a desktop OS and Windows Server as something reserved for corporate IT departments. But if you’re setting up a VPS, you might notice that both are technically available as options. So, which one actually makes sense?

Let’s break down the pros, cons, and real-world use cases for each, so you don’t end up choosing the wrong Windows OS for your VPS.

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What is Windows 10?

Windows 10 is Microsoft’s flagship desktop operating system. It’s built for personal computers, not servers, but it’s flexible enough that some users try to force it into a VPS environment.

Designed for laptops, desktops, and tablets
Prioritizes graphical interface and local applications
Comes with Microsoft Store, Cortana, and bloatware you probably don’t want on a server
Licensing typically limits or prohibits use in datacenter or hosting environments
Familiar UI that makes it easier for non-admins to navigate

It’s fine for local workstations, but it’s not built for multi-user hosting, role-based services, or long-term server stability.

What is Windows Server?

Windows Server is Microsoft’s server-grade OS, designed specifically for hosting applications, managing networks, and serving content.

Built to run 24/7 with high uptime
Includes advanced roles like Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Hyper-V
Lacks desktop extras (no Microsoft Store, no Cortana, no Candy Crush)
Designed for headless operation, remote management, and automation
Licensing allows for legal use in data centers and virtualized environments

It’s the industry standard for any Windows-based VPS because it’s stable, customizable, and purpose-built for server use.

Key differences between Windows 10 and Windows Server on a VPS

While they may look similar at first glance, their intended use and performance on a VPS are very different.

System resources

Windows 10 consumes more RAM and CPU due to its GUI and background apps. Windows Server runs leaner, especially in Server Core mode.

Licensing

Windows 10’s license typically prohibits installation in a hosting or datacenter environment. Windows Server licenses are designed for exactly that use.

Remote access

Windows 10 only supports a single RDP session. If someone else logs in remotely, it boots the other user off. Windows Server supports multiple concurrent sessions (with the right roles enabled).

Features and roles

Windows 10 is missing server roles like Hyper-V, Remote Desktop Services, Active Directory, or IIS in production-grade capacity. Windows Server is packed with them—and you can install only what you need.

Update control

Windows 10 updates are frequent and often disruptive. Windows Server follows the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC), so updates are spaced out and more manageable.

When would someone choose Windows 10 on a VPS?

Windows 10 can technically be used as a VPS operating system, and in some niche cases, it works. But it’s rarely the best fit and often introduces licensing, compatibility, and performance issues.

You might consider Windows 10 on a VPS if:

You need to test or run a GUI-based desktop application that doesn’t play well with Windows Server
Your software explicitly requires Windows 10 or refuses to run on Server editions
You want to simulate a local desktop for QA, automation, or remote workstation access (with correct licensing)
You’re building a virtual desktop for a single user, and you’re okay with the limitations

The caveat? Many VPS providers won’t even offer Windows 10 as an option because of the licensing headaches and potential EULA violations.

When is Windows Server the right choice?

For almost every VPS use case, Windows Server is the better fit—especially if your application needs to be stable, scalable, and legally compliant.

Choose Windows Server for:

Hosting websites using IIS, ASP.NET, or .NET Core
Application servers that run 24/7
File sharing and network storage
Multi-user remote desktop environments
Enterprise-grade virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI)
Production databases (like SQL Server)
Secure environments with Group Policy and Active Directory

It’s built for exactly this kind of work.

Performance and security: why Windows Server usually wins

Windows Server is designed to run lean, secure, and always-on. Here’s why it performs better on a VPS:

No bloat: No unnecessary GUI fluff wasting CPU and memory
Remote management: Built-in PowerShell, Server Manager, and role-based admin
Multi-user sessions: No weird hacks or workarounds needed
Security hardening: Windows Defender for Servers, network lockdown options, and role-based isolation
Scalability: Easily handles growth, especially in cloud VPS clusters

If you’re trying to maximize performance or run a serious workload, you’ll get more from the same resources with Windows Server.

Cost comparison and licensing

This part matters more than most realize.

Windows 10: Licensing terms typically restrict it from use in data centers or hosting providers. If you’re not 100% sure it’s allowed, assume it’s not.
Windows Server: Hosting providers can legally offer it through Microsoft’s SPLA (Service Provider License Agreement), and costs are usually baked into your monthly VPS plan.

Bottom line: Windows Server is easier to license and often ends up being cheaper when done right.

Use case comparison chart

Here’s the bottom line.

Choose Windows Server 2022 if you’re starting a new project, care about strong security, want longer support, or are building hybrid cloud services.
Stick with Windows Server 2019 if you’re running legacy applications, use tools that aren’t yet 2022-certified, or just want something rock-solid and familiar for the next few years.

Next steps for choosing a Windows VPS OS

If you’re setting up anything beyond a virtual desktop for a single user, Windows Server is the clear choice. It’s secure, scalable, legally supported, and built for the exact use cases VPS customers need.

Not sure which version you need—2019, 2022, or something else? That depends on your workload, support timeline, and provider options.

When you’re ready to upgrade your hosting to a high-quality Windows VPS, Liquid Web can help. We’ve been leading the industry for decades, because our VPS servers are fast, cloud-based for easy scalability, and unbeatably reliable.

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