When looking for tools to administer your Linux servers, you’ll probably come across the names Webmin and Virtualmin. Although these two solutions appear similar, they perform slightly different functions and are tailored to specific needs. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between Webmin and Virtualmin. This is to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
What is Webmin?
Webmin is an open-source system administration tool that provides a user-friendly web interface for managing Unix and Linux systems.
It offers a wide range of functions. These include user management, service management, file management, network management, software package management and much more.
Webmin is designed to simplify system administration tasks by offering a graphical alternative to the command line.
Read also: Simplify management of your Ubuntu server with Webmin
What is Virtualmin?
Virtualmin, on the other hand, is a Webmin extension that adds specific features for managing web servers and hosting services.
Virtualmin lets you create and manage virtual servers for hosting websites, e-mail, databases and other services.
It integrates features such as domain management, user management, SSL certificates, backups and much more.
Main differences between Webmin and Virtualmin
Features :
Webmin focuses on general system administration and offers a wide range of features for managing the fundamental aspects of a Linux server.
Virtualmin, on the other hand, focuses on web hosting and provides specific functionalities for managing web servers, domains, users, SSL certificates and more.
Use :
Webmin is ideal for system administrators who need a web interface to manage the essential aspects of their Linux server.
Virtualmin is best suited to web hosting providers. And system administrators who manage multiple websites and need advanced tools to manage the hosting infrastructure.
Complexity :
Webmin is simpler and lighter, with a smoother learning curve, making it suitable for beginner and intermediate users.
Virtualmin is more complex and offers advanced features for web hosting management, making it more suitable for experienced users.
Webmin vs Virtualmin
Table summarizing the main differences between Webmin and Virtualmin :
| Features | Webmin | Virtualmin |
|---|---|---|
| System administration | ✔️ Wide range of functions | ❌ Focused on web hosting |
| Web server management | ❌ Manages fundamental aspects of the server | ✔️ Offers advanced features |
| Use | ✔️ Suitable for system administrators | ❌ Ideal for hosting providers |
| Complexity | ✔️ Simpler and lighter | ❌ More complex and advanced |
Conclusion
In short, Webmin and Virtualmin are two powerful system administration tools, but with different objectives.
Webmin is ideal for general system administration, while Virtualmin is designed for advanced web hosting management.
Depending on your needs, you can choose the one that best suits your situation.
