Windows Hosting: When and Why You Need

Are you struggling to deploy a web app that relies on Microsoft technologies? Do you find deployment failures, SQL Server errors, or .NET compatibility issues slowing you down? 

Apps that work on your computer often fail when moved to the server.

Because of this, picking the right hosting environment is a must.

Windows Hosting provides a complete Windows server environment, including IIS, ASP.NET, .NET Core, SQL Server, and Plesk Control Panel. It is built specifically for apps that depend on Microsoft technologies.

In this article, you will learn:

• What Windows Hosting is and how it works
• Core components
• When you need it
• Why you choose the hosting Instead of Linux hosting
• The type that fits your needs
• Key attributes
• Real use cases
• How to choose the right plan for your app
• Deployment workflow (step-by-step)
• Common problems
• When it’s the right choice
• Best Windows hosting providers

Let’s take a closer look and see why hosting your app or website on Windows might be the solution.

What Windows Hosting Is (and How It Works)

Windows hosting is a server setup designed for applications built with Microsoft technologies. It runs on Windows Server 2016, 2019, or 2022, and comes with tools like IIS, ASP.NET, .NET Framework / .NET 6/7, SQL Server, and Plesk Control Panel.

Because of this, developers can deploy applications using Web Deploy, run legacy Windows apps, and manage databases with MSSQL. 

Windows Server Versions Used in Hosting

The hosting uses different Windows Server versions depending on your needs.

Windows Server 2016

This one is an older, stable version of Windows Server. This one is perfect for legacy apps built years ago. It includes security updates, IIS support, and old .NET Framework support.

Windows Server 2019

Here comes the enterprise favorite, modern and reliable. The Windows server supports new ASP.NET Core apps and SQL Server features. Its key features include improved security, performance, and Hyper-V virtualization.

Windows Server 2022

This one is the newest version with advanced features. It supports .NET 6/7, better cloud integration, and high-traffic apps. Key features include security enhancements, faster IIS, and distributed storage.

Core Components That Make Windows Hosting Unique

Here’s what comes with Windows hosting and what it does.

a) IIS (Internet Information Services)

Think of IIS as the “post office” for your website. When someone types your website address, their computer sends a message to the server. IIS receives it, finds the correct page or app, and sends it back so the visitor can see your site. 

Without IIS, your app cannot communicate with visitors.

b) ASP.NET / ASP.NET Core

These are like building kits for websites and apps. They provide blocks and instructions to create pages, forms, logins, and other functions. 

ASP.NET makes sure your site runs fast, handles lots of users at once, and stays secure.

c) .NET Framework / .NET 6 / .NET 7

This is the “engine” that makes your app run. 

Think of it like the motor in a car. Your app is the car body, and .NET is what makes it move. Without it, your app won’t start. 

Different versions (4.x, 6, 7) support various features and programming styles.

d) SQL Server (MSSQL)

This is your app’s “brain for data.” 

It stores all your information: customer details, orders, inventory, or anything your app needs to remember. SQL Server makes sure data can be read and saved quickly, safely, and accurately.

e) Visual Studio Publishing & Web Deploy

This is the magic button for sending your app from your computer to the server. You click publish, and everything, files, databases, and settings, moves automatically. 

It stops mistakes from manually copying files and keeps your app ready for visitors.

Tools Developers Use in a Windows Hosting Environment

Windows hosting comes with tools that let you control, deploy, and fix apps easily. So forget the struggles. 

Here are the tools the hosting offers.

• PowerShell: Think of it as your robot assistant. It automates tasks like backups, server configuration, and scripts.
• RDP Access (Remote Desktop Protocol): Allows you to use the server like your own computer. Install apps, tweak settings, and fix issues directly.
• FTP / FTPS: Upload files safely to the server. You can move web pages, images, or scripts with a click.
• Git for Windows: Tracks your code changes and lets multiple developers work together without breaking anything.
• Plesk Obsidian: A control panel that helps manage websites, databases, apps, backups, and security in one place.

Because of these tools, you can deploy applications using Web Deploy, scale enterprise apps on a Windows VPS, and run legacy Windows applications without problems.

When You Need Windows Hosting (Non-Negotiable Scenarios)

Some apps and websites won’t work properly anywhere else. If your app uses Microsoft technologies, you need this type of hosting. 

Here’s when you switch.

1) You Are Running an ASP.NET or .NET Core Web Application

If your site or app is built with C#, Razor pages, or MVC apps, it needs the .NET runtime to work. 

Without Windows hosting, your app can break or run slowly. The hosting gives it the environment it was made for, so it runs fast and smoothly.

2) Your App Requires Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL)

If your app uses SQL Server, like Express, Standard, or Enterprise, Windows is required. Features like stored procedures, triggers, and views only work here. 

Using Windows makes your databases fast, safe, and reliable, which is vital for CRM systems, inventory apps, or SaaS platforms.

3) Your Website Relies on IIS Features

If your website needs URL Rewrite, application pools, SSL/TLS, or Web Deploy automation, you need IIS. IIS handles these tasks perfectly. 

Without it, your website may have errors, slow loading, or security problems.

4) You Need to Publish Directly from Visual Studio

The hosting lets you deploy straight from Visual Studio. You can build → compile → deploy with one click. 

This saves time, reduces mistakes, and keeps your development process simple and reliable.

5) Your Software Uses COM Objects or Windows-Only Libraries

Some old apps, internal tools, or software need COM objects or Windows-only libraries. Only Windows hosting can run these properly. 

This means you can move old software to the cloud without breaking anything.

6) You Require Remote Desktop (RDP) Access for Full Server Control

If you need to change system settings, run scripts, or schedule tasks, RDP is essential. This type of hosting gives you full control of the server. 

You can install, configure, and manage your apps the way you want.

Why You Choose Windows Hosting Instead of Linux Hosting

When you build a website or app, you need a server that matches your tech. If your app uses Microsoft tools, Linux can’t do everything. 

Here’s why you should go Windows.

A. You Need Better Compatibility With Microsoft Technologies

If your app runs on ASP.NET, Linux won’t handle it properly. The same applies to MS SQL databases. They are designed for Windows, not MySQL. 

Apps that rely on IIS will break on Linux. 

B. You Want Tools Linux Cannot Give You

With this hosting, you get RDP access to fully control your server. Plesk automation helps you manage apps with ease. You can use the .NET Framework runtime and Web Deploy to publish directly from Visual Studio. 

These tools save time and prevent headaches.

C. Linux Isn’t Enough for Certain Apps

Some software only works on Windows. 

If you run CRM or ERP systems, apps that need Windows authentication, or internal business tools built on the Microsoft stack, Linux will fail. 

You need Windows hosting to keep these apps running.

D. Linux Works Only in Some Cases

If you only run PHP apps, WordPress sites, or static websites, Linux works fine. But the moment your software depends on Microsoft tech, Windows becomes the only choice.

Which Windows Hosting Type Fits Your Needs

You have options when picking Windows hosting. Let’s find what fits you.

1.1 Windows Shared Hosting

If you have small ASP.NET websites, test projects, or blogs, Windows shared hosting is your best choice. It’s cheap, comes with Plesk, and is easy to use. 

But remember, resources are limited, so it’s only good for low-traffic sites.

1.2 Windows VPS Hosting (Most Popular)

Pick Windows VPS hosting if your app is growing, like an e-commerce store or a company dashboard. You get dedicated CPU and RAM, Hyper-V virtualization, and RDP access to manage your server. 

Shared hosting is too small? VPS is perfect.

1.3 Windows Dedicated Server

Go for a Windows dedicated server when you have high-traffic apps, SaaS platforms, or heavy databases. You get complete OS control, an isolated environment, and top performance. 

This is for serious apps that cannot fail.

1.4 Windows Cloud Hosting

If your traffic changes a lot or you have global users, Windows cloud hosting works best. It gives instant scaling, load balancing, and distributed storage. 

Perfect for microservices or modern SaaS apps that need flexibility and reliability.

Key Attributes That Define a Good Windows Hosting Provider

When you pick a Windows hosting provider, you don’t want surprises. You want everything your app needs to run fast, secure, and easy. 

Here’s what to look for:

a. OS, Software, and Framework Support

Make sure the host runs Windows Server 2016, 2019, or 2022. Your apps should support .NET Framework 4.x and ASP.NET Core 6, 7, or 8. Also, check they provide the correct SQL Server versions so your databases run without errors. 

Because of this, your apps won’t crash or break when using Microsoft tools.

b. Performance Resources

You want fast SSD or NVMe storage, enough vCPU (1–32), and RAM (2–128GB) to handle your traffic. Unmetered bandwidth helps your users access your app without slowdowns. 

On average, VPS hosting can make apps 2–3x faster than shared hosting.

c. Security Requirements

A good provider includes Windows Firewall, DDoS protection, automatic updates, and malware scanning. This keeps your apps safe from hackers and viruses so that you can focus on your business, not firefighting server issues.

d. Management Features

Look for Plesk control panel, RDP access, automated backups, and app monitoring tools. These make managing your server simple, even if you’re not a full-time IT pro. 

Another key benefit is being able to recover quickly from failures or mistakes.

e. Developer-Focused Tools

You should get Web Deploy, Git integration, file manager, and cron/scheduled tasks. These tools let you deploy, update, and manage your apps like a pro, without wasting time on repetitive work.

Windows Hosting Real Use Cases

The hosting is not just for tech geeks: it’s built for real business needs. 

Here’s where it shines:

A. SaaS Platforms Built on .NET

If you build CRM tools, HR systems, or invoicing platforms, Windows Hosting keeps everything running smoothly. Apps built on .NET Core deploy faster and scale more easily.

B. E-commerce Stores Needing SQL Server

Stores that track inventory, customer data, and secure payments need SQL Server support. The hosting handles heavy database workloads safely. 

C. Businesses Running Legacy Windows Applications

If you’re moving old on-prem apps to the cloud, Windows hosting makes migration simple. Apps relying on COM objects or old Windows libraries keep working without breaking.

D. Developers Building Modern .NET Applications

Developers using Visual Studio can publish directly with one-click workflows. Windows supports build → compile → deploy pipelines, saving time and avoiding errors.

E. Enterprises Using Internal Dashboards

Companies running finance dashboards, inventory systems, or ERP tools need reliable hosting. The hosting gives them full server control, RDP access, and high performance, so internal apps never slow down.

How to Choose the Right Windows Hosting Plan for Your App

Picking a Windows hosting plan can feel confusing, but it’s simpler if you focus on the key things your app needs. 

Here’s how to make the right choice:

01. Identify Your Framework Requirements

Check what your app runs on. Do you need .NET Framework 4.x, ASP.NET Core 6/7/8, or a specific MSSQL edition? Make sure the host supports IIS features, like application pools and SSL management. 

This ensures your app won’t crash because the server can run it properly.

02. Estimate Your Resource Needs

Look at your CPU threads, RAM, storage, and bandwidth. Small sites can use shared hosting, but bigger apps may need a Windows VPS or Dedicated Server.

03. Confirm Security and Compliance

Check for SSL certificates, automated backups, access controls, and audit features. A secure server protects your app, your users’ data, and your reputation. 

Because of this, you won’t have to worry about unexpected hacks or downtime.

04. Check Scaling and Upgrade Options

Your app might grow. Make sure the host lets you move easily from Shared → VPS → Dedicated → Cloud Hosting. This keeps your website fast even when traffic spikes.

05. Look for Developer-Centric Tools

If you or your team are building apps, you need RDP access, Plesk, PowerShell, and Git integration. These tools let you deploy, manage, and update apps efficiently, without waiting for support.

Windows Hosting Deployment Workflow (Step-by-Step)

Once you have your hosting plan, here’s how to get your app live step by step, using Windows tools:

Step 1: Prepare Your Application

Compile your code in Visual Studio, then package it for deployment. This makes sure the app is ready to run on the server without errors.

Step 2:Configure IIS on the Server

Set up Application Pools, Bindings, SSL, and URL Rewrite in IIS. This controls how your app handles traffic and keeps connections secure.

Step 3:Set Up SQL Server

Restore your database, set up user permissions, and update connection strings. SQL Server hosting ensures your app can read and write data safely.

Step 4:Upload Files

Use Web Deploy, FTP/FTPS, or Plesk File Manager to put your app on the server. This is how your website becomes live for visitors.

Step 5:Test, Monitor, and Optimize

Check performance with monitoring tools, debug issues, and tweak settings for speed. A well-optimized app loads faster and keeps users happy.

Common Problems Windows Hosting Solves

Sometimes your app won’t work properly if the server isn’t set up for Windows technologies. Here’s what can go wrong, and how Windows hosting fixes it:

1. .NET Apps Not Running on Linux

If your app is built with ASP.NET or .NET Core, it might fail on Linux servers. Windows hosting provides the native .NET runtime, so your app runs smoothly without errors.

2. MSSQL Database Errors on Non-Windows Hosts

Using SQL Server on a Linux host often causes errors with stored procedures, triggers, or views. With Windows Hosting, MSSQL Standard/Express is fully supported, letting your database work precisely as it should.

3. Deployment Failure From Visual Studio

Trying to deploy directly from Visual Studio can fail if the server isn’t configured for Web Deploy. The hosting comes with IIS pre-configured, so one-click publishing works without headaches.

4. COM Objects or Windows Libraries Break

Legacy Windows apps or libraries that rely on COM components often crash on Linux servers. A full Windows Server environment ensures all Windows-specific libraries run properly.

5. Limited Access in Shared Hosting

Shared hosting limits what you can do, especially if you need to run scripts or custom tasks. Windows VPS or Dedicated Servers give RDP access, letting you control the server, schedule tasks, and run scripts without restrictions.

When Windows Hosting Is the Right Choice

Here’s how to know if Windows hosting is the best option for your app:

• Your app uses ASP.NET or .NET Core
• You need IIS-specific features like URL Rewrite or Application Pools.
• Your database runs on SQL Server.
• You want to deploy directly from Visual Studio
• You need RDP access and a complete Windows environment

Best Windows Hosting Provider

Looking for reliable Windows Hosting? 

Truehost makes deploying ASP.NET sites, .NET Core apps, and SQL Server databases easy. With Windows Server 2019, Plesk Obsidian, and full RDP access on advanced plans, you get complete control, security, and one-click app deployment.

Customers love the support.

Sammy Kamau calls it “the best web hosting you can rely on.” 

Anne Muchiri says, “They are very helpful and resolve issues fast.” F

Flamingo Radio shares how Truehost supported their small radio station when funds were low, storing data safely and helping with migrations. 

King King notes the friendly 24/7 technical support, especially from Simon, and ChepparVEVO appreciates the overall reliability.

Truehost’s window hosting plans are flexible, ranging from Starter ($1.52/month) to Business ($60/month). All comes with SSD storage, MSSQL support, free SSL, and automated backups. 

Truehost is ideal for developers, businesses, and enterprises that require a reliable Windows hosting environment.

Windows Hosting FAQs