Updated and expanded in February 2024.A server management panel, colloquially known as a control panel, provides a graphical user interface (GUI) enabling users to handle servers and websites with ease. These panels simplify tasks such as server setup, file and database management, and software installation, obviating the need for exhaustive technical knowledge or command-line expertise. Delve into the world of Virtual Private Server (VPS) panels with this in-depth article. Note: This is a LONG post. A cup of tea or coffee is highly recommended if you are planning to read in one go.

Summary

In the world of web hosting, server management panels are a powerful tool. Such panels provides a graphical interface to manage servers and websites easily without extensive technical knowledge. From understanding the fundamentals to mastering advanced techniques, this comprehensive guide is designed to equip general readers with the knowledge and insights needed to harness the full potential of VPS panels. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced user, this article offers practical guidance and valuable information to help you navigate the complexities of VPS management with confidence.

एक सर्वर प्रबंधन पैनल बिना विस्तृत तकनीकी ज्ञान के सर्वर और वेबसाइटों का प्रबंधन करने के लिए ग्राफिकल इंटरफ़ेस प्रदान करता है। सीपैनल और प्लेस्क जैसे लोकप्रिय प्रोप्राइटरी पैनल्स के साथ वेबमिन, वर्चुअलमिन और आईएसपीकॉन्फ़िग जैसे ओपन सोर्स विकल्प वन-क्लिक इंस्टॉल, यूजर एक्सेस प्रबंधन, निगरानी और अधिक की सुविधा प्रदान करते हैं। चयन बजट, लिनक्स प्रवीणता और विशिष्ट आवश्यकताओं पर निर्भर करता है।

What are server management panels

  • Understanding what is a server management panel
    VPS panels, also known as control panels, are web-based interfaces that allow users to manage their virtual server. They provide a user-friendly and efficient way to manage your server, without the need for technical expertise. VPS panels are crucial for small business owners who may not have the resources to hire a dedicated server administrator.
    • Benefits of Using VPS Panels for Website Management
    One of the main benefits of using VPS panels is the ease of server management. With a VPS panel, you can easily monitor and manage your server’s resources, such as CPU usage, memory, and storage. This allows you to optimize your server’s performance and ensure that your website runs smoothly. Additionally, VPS panels offer a variety of tools and features to help you manage your website, including one-click installations of popular applications, like WordPress or Joomla.
    Another advantage of using VPS panels is the level of customization they offer. With a VPS, you have full root access to your server, meaning you can install and configure any software or applications you need for your business. VPS panels make this process even easier by providing a user-friendly interface to manage these installations. This level of customization allows you to tailor your server to your specific business needs, giving you more control over your website’s performance.
     
    Banner image for blog post on Server Management Panels. Blog of Amar Vyas

    Typical Features of Server Management Panels

        A server management panel provides a graphical or command line based interface for managing your server. Some common features include:

        • Installation of databases like MySQL
        • Web servers like Nginx and Apache
        • Firewall and SSL certificate configuration
        • User and access management
        • Monitoring tools
        • Backup utilities and restore functionality
        • One-click installs of Content Management Systems and other applications

        Server panels like Runcloud, Serverpilot, and Server Avatar share common features: They offer a control panel with a graphical interface, with command-line tools being optional. They require a KVM bsaed VPS with Linux or in rare cases, BSD as the operating system. Majority of them recommend Ubuntu based servers. Others like Centminmod or CentOsWeb Panel require CentOs. HestiaCP or VestaCP recommend either Ubuntu or Debian 10. One major advantage of open-source server panels is their cost-effectiveness, making them suitable for small businesses or individuals with limited budgets. Plus, they have a robust community that contributes to their continuous improvement. However, for those needing more advanced features or technical support, freemium or paid panels might be a better fit.

        Other key features include creating and backing up database, editing dns zone, changing php version. Some of these tasks may require root access.

        Advanced VPS Panel Management Techniques

        • Customizing Server Settings and Configurations
        • Managing Multiple Websites and Domains
        • Optimizing Performance with VPS Panels
        With advanced panel management techniques, server management can be made much more efficient and effective. Customizing server settings and configurations allows for a tailored approach to meeting the specific needs of a website or application. This includes optimizing security measures, resource allocation, and other important parameters. Additionally, with the ability to manage multiple websites and domains, VPS panel management allows for seamless management of various online properties.This includes email configuration, remove mysql management, often free ssl certificate provision, and ability access wordpress admin panel or to management of content management systems. This not only streamlines the process, but also saves time and resources. Furthermore, optimizing performance with VPS panels enables administrators to fine-tune the server to achieve optimal speed and efficiency, resulting in a better user experience. With these advanced techniques, VPS panel management becomes a crucial tool for businesses and individuals looking to maximize their online presence.

        Types of VPS Panels

        • Open Source: Features, Pros, and Cons (HestiaCP, Cipi, aapanel,)
        • Freemium: Features, Pros, and Cons (Cloudpanel, Cloudron)
        • Propereitary: Features, Pros, and Cons ( Gridpane, Server Avatar, DirectAdmin, CPanel)
        • Software as a Service or SaaS: Features, Pros, and Cons (commonly used in Managed hosting- Wix, Jimdo, Blogger, etc)
        There are various types of VPS panels available, each with its own set of features and benefits. In this blog post, we will discuss the three main types of VPS panels: Open Source, Freemium, and Proprietary, as well as a newer option, SaaS.

        Open Source VPS Panels

        Open source VPS panels are free and open source software that can be downloaded and installed on a server. These panels are developed and maintained by a community of developers and are available for anyone to use. Some popular open source VPS panels include Virtualmin, Webmin, and VestaCP.

        Freemium VPS Panels

        Freemium VPS panels are a combination of free and premium features. They offer a basic set of features for free, but users can upgrade to a paid version for more advanced features and support. Some popular freemium VPS panels include cPanel, Plesk, and DirectAdmin.

        Premium VPS Panels

        Premium VPS panels are the most advanced and feature-rich panels available in the market. They are usually designed for experienced users who need complete control over their VPS. These panels offer a wide range of features such as server monitoring, automated backups, advanced security measures, and one-click installations of popular applications. Some popular examples of premium VPS panels are cPanel, Plesk, and DirectAdmin. These panels come with a price tag, but they offer a seamless and efficient VPS management experience.

        SaaS VPS Panels

        Software as a Service (SaaS) VPS panels are cloud-based panels that can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. These panels are usually subscription-based and offer a pay-as-you-go model. They are ideal for beginners or those who don’t want to invest in a premium panel. SaaS panels offer basic features such as server management, resource monitoring, and one-click installations of popular applications. Some popular examples of SaaS VPS panels are RunCloud, ServerPilot, and GridPane.

        VPS Panels versus Command line Server Management Tools

        • Features, Pros, and Cons compared to server management panels
        • Advanced users versus beginner friendly
        • Short introduction to webinoly, slickstack,etc.
        VPS panels and command line server management tools are two popular options for managing servers. VPS panels, such as cPanel and Plesk, offer a user-friendly graphical interface that allows users to easily manage their servers without needing advanced technical knowledge. On the other hand, command line tools, such as Webinoly and SlickStack, require users to have a deeper understanding of server management and coding. While VPS panels offer a wide range of features and are beginner-friendly, they can also be limited in terms of customization and may come at a higher cost. Command line tools, on the other hand, offer more flexibility and control over server management, but they can be intimidating for beginners. Ultimately, the choice between VPS hosting panels, server panels, or command line tools depends on the user’s level of expertise and their specific needs for server management.

        Tips for Choosing the Right VPS Panel for Your Needs

          With a wide range of options available in the server panels space, it can be overwhelming to determine which panel best suits your needs. To make an informed decision, it is important to assess your technical requirements, considering factors such as server resources, scalability, and compatibility with your operating system. Additionally, user-friendliness and interface play a significant role in the ease of managing your VPS, so it is essential to review the panel’s features and interface before making a choice. Security and support should also be top considerations, as they are crucial for maintaining the integrity of your data and ensuring smooth operation. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can confidently select the right VPS panel that meets your specific needs and enables you to achieve your goals efficiently and effectively.
          • Assessing Your Technical Requirements
          Before diving into the various VPS panels, it is essential to assess your technical requirements. This includes understanding the amount of storage, bandwidth, and RAM you will need for your website or application. It is also crucial to consider the operating system and software requirements for your project. Some VPS panels may be better suited for certain operating systems, so it is vital to do your research and ensure compatibility before making a decision.
          • User Friendliness and Interface
          The user-friendliness and interface of a VPS panel can greatly impact your overall experience. A complicated and confusing interface can lead to frustration and wasted time, while a user-friendly and intuitive interface can make managing your VPS a breeze. It is recommended to opt for a VPS panel with a clean and organized interface, as well as a user-friendly control panel that allows for easy management of your server.
          • Evaluating Security and Support Features
          Security should be a top priority when choosing a VPS panel. Look for features such as firewalls, DDoS protection, and regular backups to ensure the safety of your data. Additionally, consider the level of support offered by the VPS panel provider. Do they offer 24/7 customer support? Are there resources available for troubleshooting and resolving technical issues? These are crucial factors to consider, especially if you are not familiar with managing a VPS.
          • Research the Reviews and Feedback
          One of the best ways to gauge the reliability and performance of a VPS panel is by researching reviews and feedback from current or previous users. Look for reviews on reputable websites or forums and pay attention to any recurring issues or complaints. This will give you a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each VPS panel and help you make an informed decision.
          • Take Advantage of Free Trials
          Many VPS panel providers offer free trials, allowing you to test out their services before making a decision.

          Open Source Web Hosting Panels

          • What are open source web hosting panels
          • Are these panels for D-I-Yers only ,or can they be used on production sites ?
          • Advantages and limitations over other types
          Open source VPS panels, have gained popularity among web hosting enthusiasts. We will discuss who should opt for open source VPS panels, their advantages and limitations compared to other types, and whether they can be used on production sites.
          Firstly, let’s understand what open source VPS panels are. These are control panels that allow users to manage their virtual private servers (VPS) through a web-based interface. They provide a user-friendly way to manage server configurations, applications, databases, and other server resources. Unlike proprietary control panels, open source VPS panels are free to use and can be modified and distributed by anyone.

          Who should opt for open source web hosting panels?

          The short answer is – anyone who wants more control over their server management and is comfortable with a do-it-yourself (D-I-Y) approach. These panels are suitable for small business owners who have some technical knowledge and want to have more control over their server resources. They are also an excellent option for web hosting enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with server configurations and want to customize their hosting experience.

          Can open source VPS panels be used on production sites

          The answer is yes. While these panels are often associated with D-I-Yers, they can also be used for production sites. However, it is essential to note that using open source VPS panels on production sites requires a certain level of technical expertise. If you are not familiar with server management, it is best to seek professional help to avoid any potential issues.

          Advantages and limitations of open source VPS panels

          When we compare to other types of control panels, the most significant advantage of open source VPS panels is that they are free to use and source code is availabe. This factor makes them an attractive option for small business owners who are on a tight budget. Moreover, as they are open source, they can be customized to fit specific business needs, giving users more control over their hosting environment.
          On the other hand, open source VPS panels may have some limitations compared to other types of control panels. As they are free to use, they may not offer the same level of support and features as premium control panels.

          Comparing Features of some open source VPS Panels

          • Ajenti: Features, Pros, and Cons
            Ajenti stands out for its modular architecture that allows extending functionality through plugins. It provides good monitoring capabilities and tools for file management and accessing the terminal through the browser. Downsides are less support compared to commercial panels and fewer advanced capabilities.
            • HestiaCP: Features, Pros, and Cons
            HestiaCP simplifies web stack configuration along with user, domain and resource monitoring. Its UI is easy to navigate and optimized for Nginx. Drawbacks include documentation gaps and a smaller user community than leading proprietary panels.
            Installation menu for HestiaCP. Blog post by Amar Vyas on Server Management Panels

            Installation menu for HestiaCP

            • aapanel: Features, Pros, and Cons
            Aapanel makes deploying apps easy through its built-in app store while monitoring system resources. It has handy security extensions as well. The open source panel is let down by limited support availability and third-party integrations.
            • cipi: Features, Pros, and Cons
              Cipi offers a basic set of system configuration and monitoring tools while being lightweight and simple to operate. However, it has very constrained capabilities compared to full-featured control panel solutions.
              • Webmin: Features, Pros, and Cons
                Webmin is a powerful and flexible open source server management panel for Linux, providing a webbased interface for system administration tasks such as user account management, package installation, and network configuration.
                Screenshot of VirtualMin Server Panel

                Screenshot of VirtualMin Server Panel

                • Cockpit: Features, Pros, and Cons
                  Cockpit is a userfriendly open source server management panel for Linux, offering a web based interface for monitoring system performance, managing storage, and configuring network settings, all from a single dashboard.
                  In summary, Ajenti and HestiaCP offer the best balance of usability and features as open source self-hosted control panel options. Aapanel provides good app deployment support while Cipi works for only the most basic management needs.
                  Control Panel Key Features Pros Cons
                  Ajenti Modular plugins, file manager, terminal, system monitoring Lightweight, extensible, open source Limited support, fewer features than paid panels
                  HestiaCP Web stack config, users, domains, monitoring Intuitive UI, Nginx optimized, open source Limited documentation, smaller community
                  Aapanel App store, system resources monitoring, security extensions Easy to use, 1-click installs, open source Limited support, fewer integrations
                  Cipi System config, services monitoring, updates Lightweight, simple to use, open source Very limited features, little documentation

                  Freemium VPS Panels

                  • Who should opt for Freemium VPS panels
                  As a small business owner, it can be challenging to find the right web hosting solution that fits both your budget and needs. One type of VPS that has gained popularity among web hosting enthusiasts is the Freemium VPS panel.
                  First, let’s understand what a Freemium VPS panel is. It is a type of VPS panel that offers a combination of free and premium features. This means that the basic features of the panel are available for free, while advanced features require a paid subscription. Some popular Freemium VPS panels include Virtualmin, ZPanel, and Sentora.
                  • Advantages and limitations over other types
                  One of the main advantages of Freemium VPS panels is their cost-effectiveness. The basic features are available for free, which can be a significant saving for small business owners. Moreover, these panels often come with user-friendly interfaces, making it easy for non-technical users to manage their VPS. This can be beneficial for small business owners who do not have a dedicated IT team.
                  The most significant limitation is the lack of customization options compared to open-source VPS panels. This means that if you need advanced configurations or customizations for your VPS, you may need to upgrade to a paid subscription or switch to a different type of VPS panel.
                  Another limitation is the potential for limited support. As Freemium VPS panels are often developed by small teams or individuals, the level of support may not be as comprehensive as that of paid VPS panels. This can be a concern for businesses that rely heavily on their VPS for their operations.
                  In comparison to open-source VPS panels, Freemium VPS panels offer a middle ground between cost, user friendliness, support, and technical features.

                  Comparing Features of some Freemium VPS Panels

                  • Cloudron: Features, Pros, and Cons
                    Cloudron is known for its app store with 60+ preconfigured apps that can be installed with one click. It handles auto updates, backups, security hardening, and provides an email server, LDAP, and isolated containers for each app. Pros are ease of use, great security, and auto updates. Downsides are it can have a steep learning curve for non-technical users.
                    • CloudPanel: Features, Pros, and Cons
                    CloudPanel offers a free control panel focused on speed and ease of use. Its clean UI and rapid setup makes it user friendly. Key features include a dashboard, domain management, databases, security tools, cloud integration, and a CLI. As a free panel, features are more limited compared to paid solutions.
                    Account creation for Cloudpanel, 2021. Blog post by Amar Vyas on Server Management Panels

                    Account creation for Cloudpanel, 2021

                    • Server Avatar: Features, Pros, and Cons
                    Server Avatar provides an intuitive control panel interface along with app installs, user and domain management, monitoring, and backups. It also has a marketplace for addons. Pros are the UI and apps marketplace, cons are limits in the free version.
                    In summary, Cloudron specializes in one-click app deployment while CloudPanel offers a free basic panel. Webmin/Virtualmin are customizable open source options, and Server Avatar provides cloud orientation with an apps marketplace. The best fit depends on the specific use case requirements.
                    Control Panel Key Features Pros Cons
                    Cloudron App store with 60+ apps, one-click installs, auto updates, backups, isolated containers, email server, LDAP, security Easy to use, secure, auto updates Can be complex for non-technical users
                    CloudPanel Dashboard, domain management, databases, security, cloud integration, CLI Free, fast setup, clean UI, cloud support Limited features compared to paid panels
                    Server Avatar Apps installer, users, domains, backups, monitoring, marketplace addons Intuitive UI, apps marketplace, Windows support Limited free version features

                    Comparing Features of some Premium  or Propereitory VPS Panels

                    • DirectAdmin: Features, Pros, and Cons
                    DirectAdmin stands out for being a budget-friendly option with good performance and stability. It has an easy to use interface but is more limited in available plugins and integrations compared to proprietary panels like cPanel. Support resources are also fewer given the smaller user base.
                    • Gridpane: Features, Pros, and Cons
                      Gridpane is tailored specifically for WordPress, with a focus on performance and developer-friendly infrastructure. This makes it a great fit for agencies and developers managing multiple WordPress sites. However, the setup can be complex for less technical users.
                      • Runcloud: Features, Pros, and Cons
                      Runcloud makes it simple to deploy and manage apps on your own servers with features like one-click installs, monitoring, backups, and collaboration tools. But you need a separate cloud hosting account and can expect less hand-holding compared to managed WordPress hosts.
                      In summary, DirectAdmin wins on budget, Gridpane on advanced WordPress infrastructure, and Runcloud on ease of use. The best option depends on your specific use case, technical needs, and resources.
                      Control Panel Key Features Pros Cons
                      DirectAdmin Affordable, lightweight, easy to use, auto recovery, stable Cost effective, good performance, easy interface Limited features and plugins compared to cPanel, smaller community
                      Gridpane Optimized for WordPress, developer-friendly, performance focused Great performance, WordPress specific features, scales well Can have complex setup, focused on developers managing multiple sites
                      Runcloud Intuitive interface, 1-click installs, monitoring, backups Easy to use, good for teams, strong performance Need separate cloud hosting account, less support compared to managed hosts

                      The Myth of the “Best” Server Panel

                      The question commonly asked in many online forums is “Which is the best server management panel?” Different people have varying requirements and constraints, such as familiarity with Linux or command line, server management capability, trust in a third-party service, and budget. Therefore, a more pertinent question would be, “How do I select a Web Hosting Panel?”

                      I’ve come across various panels in numerous discussions, and I’ve tinkered with a few. Some are ideal for site monitoring, web apps installation, and Laravel-based Content Management Systems. Some panels even offer one-click installers for OctoberCMS or WordPress. In many online forums, Facebook groups, and sites such as Quora and Reddit, users ask questions like “Which is the best server management panel?” Many blogs are written with similar titles, such as this one.

                      Different people may have different requirements and constraints. Some of these are:
                      • Familiarity with Linux and or command line
                      • Ability to manage a server
                      • Specific feature requirements
                      • Support options
                      • Trust in a third party service (convenience versus delegation)
                      • Budget (free or open source versus premium panels)
                      In my opinion, rather than searching for the “best” panel, focus on the one that aligns with your needs and constraints.

                      Takeaways

                      VPS panels play a crucial role in simplifying the management of a VPS. They offer a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features to make the process of managing a VPS easier and more efficient. Whether you are an experienced user or a beginner, there is a VPS panel available for your specific needs and budget.

                      Way Forward for VPS or server Panels

                      In this section we will discuss the way forward for VPS panels and how they are evolving to meet the demands of technology and innovation, as well as business demands of hosting service providers.

                      Automation and Integration with Cloud Services

                      One of the key benefits of using VPS panels is the automation and integration they offer. With the rise of cloud services, businesses are increasingly relying on virtual servers to store and manage their data. VPS panels provide a user-friendly interface for managing these virtual servers, allowing for seamless integration with various cloud services. This integration enables businesses to easily scale their operations, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency.

                      Enhanced Security Measures and Compliance Standards

                      Security is a top concern for businesses when it comes to managing their servers. VPS panels offer enhanced security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection, and data encryption to protect against cyber threats. In addition, these panels are designed to comply with industry standards and regulations, ensuring that businesses are meeting their security and compliance requirements. This is especially important for businesses that handle sensitive data, such as those in the healthcare or finance industries.

                      Emergence of AI and Innovations in Server Management Panels

                      As technology continues to advance, we are seeing the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in server management panels. AI-powered VPS panels can analyze data and make intelligent decisions to optimize server performance and troubleshoot issues. This not only saves time and resources for businesses but also allows for proactive management of servers, reducing the risk of downtime and disruptions. Another innovation in VPS panels is the use of machine learning algorithms. These algorithms can learn from past server performance data and predict potential issues before they occur. This predictive maintenance approach can help businesses avoid costly downtime and improve the overall performance of their servers.
                      The way forward for web hosting or server management panels is focused on automation, integration, security, and innovation.

                      Parting Thoughts

                      Several server management panels stand out in the Linux VPS landscape. The proprietary cPanel, recognized for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive feature set, is a popular choice. Plesk, another proprietary panel, provides a highly customizable and scalable solution. Webmin, an open-source option, offers features like file management, user and group management, and server monitoring, all free of charge. Freemium panels like Virtualmin and ISPConfig offer a blend of open-source and premium features. Popular proprietary panels like cPanel and Plesk, along with open source options like Webmin, Virtualmin and ISPConfig offer features like one-click installs, user and access management, monitoring and more. The choice depends on budget, Linux proficiency and specific requirements.
                      Types of Control Panels
                      • Open source (free) panels: Webmin, Virtualmin, Ajenti, VestaCP, CyberPanel, CloudPanel, etc.
                      • Proprietary (paid) panels: cPanel, Plesk, DirectAdmin, InterWorx, HestiaCP, Runcloud, etc.
                      Operating System Support
                      • Linux-based panels: cPanel, Plesk, DirectAdmin, Webmin, Ajenti, VestaCP, Virtualmin, CloudPanel, etc.
                      • Windows support: Plesk, InterWorx
                      • Cross-platform panels: ISPConfig, Froxlor
                      Most Popular sever control Panels The most widely used control panels are cPanel, Plesk, and DirectAdmin. cPanel is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive features. Plesk also offers robust capabilities for Linux and Windows. DirectAdmin provides a simple yet efficient option focused on Linux.
                      Key Features of server management panels Common control panel features include domain, email, DNS, and database management, file management, security tools, backups, server monitoring, software/app installations, and more. Advanced panels add capabilities like multi-server management, reseller accounts, billing integration, marketplace apps, etc.

                      Which Server Management Panel To Use?

                      In conclusion, webserver panels provide a user-friendly interface that simplifies the management of a Linux VPS. The benefits of using a web panel for VPS include time-saving, easy management of multiple websites, and better security. There are several types of web panels available, each with its unique features and benefits. However, choosing the right web panel depends on the resources required, such as RAM, CPU, and disk space. The most well-known web panels for Linux VPS include cPanel, Plesk, and Webmin. Ultimately, the choice of a web panel depends on the specific needs of the user and the VPS system.

                      Considerations for choosing a server panel

                      When selecting a control panel, key factors to consider are features needed, budget, OS compatibility, ease of use, scalability, security, and community/support availability. Open source panels offer more customization while paid options provide enhanced capabilities and dedicated support.
                      Choosing between a vast list of web hosting control panels depends on the specific use case, OS, and technical requirements. Both open source and paid panels have their own pros and cons to evaluate. For example, small hosting companies may offer open source panels to keep the costs low. Cloud VPS providers may use propereitary tools. Some providers may offer premium offerings including plesk control panel as “Add ons” or bundle them for longer term agreements.

                      My Experience Testing Web Hosting Panels

                      Almost all the panels require PHP, with a few needing Python or other languages. In my tests, I found Cloudpanel impressive with a clean interface, while HestiaCP was lightweight and easy to install. I had issues with Server Avatar, requiring customer support help. Runcloud and Gridpane were also notable, with the latter justifying its premium status. I had configuration errors while installing Webuzo and experienced SSL issues with Openlitespeed, although that was user error. I did not spend enough time with Cyberpanel to form a solid opinion.

                      Conclusion

                      In summary, while proprietary panels like cPanel and Plesk are popular, open source options like Webmin, Virtualmin and ISPConfig also offer a decent feature set. Evaluate your specific needs and constraints before selecting the right server management panel. Sometime in the future, I plan to write separate reviews on panels like HestiaCP, VPSNoobs, Cloudpanel, Virtfusion, Server Avatar, and Gridpane.

                      Server Panels, Categorized

                      Below is a list of panels I have come across in different discussions. These are categorized under three heads – Free or open source, Freemium and Paid server panels.
                      Free/ Open Source Freemium Paid
                      Cloudpanel Core Admin Bunnyshell
                      Tinycp Runcloud Forge
                      aaPanel Virtualmin Server Avatar
                      VPSNoobs CentOS Web Panel Gridpane
                      Cipi Cloudron Cleavr
                      HestiaCP Keyhelp DirectAdmin
                      Ajenti cPanel
                      ISPConfig Webuzo
                      Agenti Interworx
                      Floxlor SpinupWP
                      Webmin VEPP
                      Centminmod Plex
                      VestaCP/MyVestaCP Ploi
                      Virtfusion
                      ServerPilot
                      Types of Server Management Panels.
                      List compiled by A Vyas, March 2022
                       

                      Frequently Asked Questions

                      Q. Why have I only included Linux VPS in this post ?

                      A. The decision to only include Linux VPS in this post is based on the specific advantages and characteristics of Linux as an operating system for virtual private servers. Linux is known for its stability, security, and flexibility, making it a popular choice for vps hosting environments. Additionally, Linux VPS tends to be more cost-effective compared to Windows VPS, as Linux is an open-source platform, which means that there are no licensing fees associated with using it. Furthermore, Linux offers a wide range of distributions, such as Ubuntu, CentOS, and Debian, each tailored to different needs and preferences. While Windows and other operating systems also have their own merits, the focus on Linux VPS in this post is to highlight its suitability for hosting and its widespread use in the industry.

                      Q: What are the typical specifications for a VPS Panel?

                      A: The typical specifications for a VPS Panel include a processor with multiple cores, ample disk space (usually SSD for faster performance), and a generous amount of RAM to support multitasking and smooth operation. Different server management Panels have different specifications. However, for testing purposes, a VPS with 2 cores, a minimum of 50GB disk space, and 4GB of RAM should be adequate.

                      Q. What was my trigger for writing this epic post

                      A. In mid-2020, there was a discussion on LowEndTalk forums about Server Management Panels a few months ago. The discussion yielded a good list of panels for servers, in the free, freemium, and paid only categories. In the next section, have listed some of the panels that I have read about or come across in many of the discussions.

                      You might also be interested in reading a related post, titled “What are Open Source Server Management Panels?”

                      I have written reviews of other server panels, including Virtfusion, Yunohost, TinyCP, as well as noted my thoughts on acquisition of Cloudways. You can check the collection page on  this topic in the future for any updates.

                      Links and References

                      • cPanel is a well known proprietary panel with a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features.
                      • Plesk is a proprietary panel that offers a more customizable and scalable solution.
                      • Webmin is an open-source option that is completely free and offers a range of features such as file management, user and group management, and server monitoring.
                      • Virtualmin Features a mix of open source and paid features.
                      • ISPConfig Hosting Control Panel is another freemium panel that offers a mix of open source and paid features.
                      • Virtfusion (First Impressions : Virtfusion Server Management Panel)
                      • TinyCP

                      This post was substantially rewritten and updated on 20 Feb 2024
                      Categories: Notes Blog