When you install or reinstall a VPS in Virtualizor, the first choice is the operating system template. The right choice depends on what you will run, which control panel you want and how long the OS receives security updates. This guide compares the common options.
Before you start
- Know your workload: websites with a control panel, Docker apps, a game server, trading software, or a custom stack.
- Check what your provider offers – template lists vary.
Quick comparison
| Template | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AlmaLinux / Rocky Linux | cPanel, DirectAdmin, Plesk; enterprise-style servers | RHEL-compatible, long support (about 10 years per major release) |
| Ubuntu LTS | Docker, Node.js, Python apps, general use, Plesk | Huge community, 5 years standard support per LTS |
| Debian | Lean, stable servers; DirectAdmin and Plesk | Conservative updates, small footprint |
| Windows Server | .NET apps, RDP desktops, MetaTrader and Windows-only software | Needs more RAM and a licence; managed via RDP |
A deeper discussion of Linux options is in choose a Linux distro for your VPS, and Linux vs Windows VPS covers the bigger decision.
Match the control panel
- cPanel/WHM runs on AlmaLinux, Rocky and (newer releases) Ubuntu LTS – check current requirements; see cPanel VPS requirements.
- Plesk supports AlmaLinux, Rocky, Ubuntu LTS, Debian and Windows Server.
- DirectAdmin supports AlmaLinux, Rocky, Debian and Ubuntu.
See install a control panel on a Virtualizor VPS.
Avoid end-of-life systems
Do not choose an OS release that is close to or past its end of life (for example CentOS 7 or CentOS 8). It will stop receiving security updates, and upgrading in place later is risky. Prefer the newest stable release your software supports.
Minimal vs application templates
Minimal templates install only the base system – ideal for servers you configure yourself and for panel installers. Templates with preinstalled applications save time but may lock you into versions or configurations you did not choose.
After choosing
- Reinstall with the template; see reinstall the OS.
- Connect via SSH (Linux) or RDP (Windows); see first Windows login.
- Update the system and secure it; see first steps on Linux.
Troubleshooting
- Template missing: your provider controls the list; ask support or use a custom ISO.
- Windows template not offered: your plan may not include a Windows licence or enough resources.