The control panel is essential in managing websites. You will, for example, be able to add and delete new users, view the error logs, install CMS systems like WordPress, configure email, perform maintenance activities, access your files, and more. Therefore making sure you chose the correct control panel is a big decision to make. In this article, we will provide an analysis between Plesk & Direct Admin to assist you in your decision-making process.
Supported Server Type / Operating System Compatibility #
Plesk supports both Linux and windows. It offers support for different Linux systems such as CentOS, CloudLinux, RedHat, Ubuntu, Debian, and openSUSe.
Direct Admin also supports Linux and runs on Linux operating systems such as RedHat, CentOS, Debian, and FreeBSD. Direct Admin does not support a Windows environment.
If you are operating in a Windows environment, you can go with Plesk.
| PRODUCT | OPERATING SYSTEM |
|---|---|
| Plesk | Windows Server (2012), Linux (CentOS/CloudLinux/RedHat/Ubuntu/Debian, openSUSE) |
| DirectAdmin | Linux (RedHat/CentOS/FreeBSD/Debian) |
UI /Usability #
DirectAdmin has a user-friendly admin area, though it provides the same options as compared to Plesk. However, Direct Admin lacks plugins. Users may not be able to install applications with a single click. The Interface is simple and relatively easy to use.
Plesk panel comes with many built-in options for Server setup, component addition, and service configurations. It allows PHP and Perl scripts. Moreover, it allows the installation of applications like WordPress, Joomla, etc. with just one click of the mouse. The UI looks more complex as compared to Direct Admin but once you get the hang of it, you can navigate quite easily.
Control Panel Interface of Direct admin
Control Panel Interface for Plesk
Support for 3rdparty hosting software #
Plesk is compatible with WHMCS using the Plesk module. DirectAdmin also works well with WHMCS. But, this may require manual package creation initially.
Security #
| PLESK | DIRECTADMIN | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. days to acknowledge an exploit | 1 | 0 | |
| Avg. days to resolve an exploit | 9 | 64 | |
| Website owners can create sub-users | NO | NO | |
| Server admin. & reseller-level sub-users | YES | NO | |
| Permission settings for all sub-users | YES | NO |
In Conclusion, #
Each web-hosting has its own strengths and weaknesses. The best control panel will be determined by the features you are looking for. I hope this article will help you make an informed decision.
