Windows 2003 vs Linux, Opinions & Experiences?

[meissenation]

Hey guys,

I've had 3 linux servers so far -- been upgrading gradually as I find what I feel are great deals for dedicated servers. Right now I've got my eye on a deal for a Core2Quad Q9300, 8gb ram, 750gb sata for $135 per month. I'm currently on a dual core 2ghz with 2gb of ram for $120 so this would be a great upgrade it seems.

The question, though, is how well does vBulletin run on Windows 2003? Would I be able to RDP once I set up a tunnel using Putty? I'd love to have a GUI to use instead of command prompt, and I'd also be looking forward to fully understanding the directory tables and what not on Win2k3 compared to Linux. I've also ran into security issues on most of my servers at one point or another, learned from each one, but how well is Win2k3 on being secure?

Just wanted to gauge general opinions and experiences on each. I could always have the server loaded with a Linux distro instead of Win2k3, but when I saw it was no additional charge for Win2k3 it just seemed to enticing to think about it more before I purchase.