15 Best Plesk Alternatives in 2023

Plesk is a highly regarded control panel, it stands as a major contender among web hosting control panel tools. It offers distinct versions tailored for Linux and Windows environments, each with various editions optimized for specific hosting requirements.

When comparing cPanel and Plesk, it’s evident that Plesk boasts a more user-friendly interface. Nonetheless, both are equipped with comparable features and are favored by large organizations. When looking for a Plesk alternative, prioritize essential features like user-friendliness, compatibility across diverse server types, strong security protocols, reasonable pricing structures, and active support.

With this guide, we’re going to tell you the top 15 Plesk alternatives with their pros and cons. This blog is written by us as a part of our Plesk server management to help you find the best Plesk alternative for your business. By reading this blog you get a thorough understanding of each one and in the end, you can decide which is best for you.

Table of Contents

Top 15 Best Plesk Alternative

1. Ajenti

Ajenti stands out as a free, open-source Plesk alternative, offering a user-friendly experience with built-in features for diverse server management tasks. Users should be mindful of its limitations in terms of community support and advanced features. A noteworthy feature is its multilingual support, ensuring users worldwide can effortlessly navigate and utilize the software in their preferred languages. It is one of the reliable Plesk alternatives for web hosting management platforms.

Ajenti is your go-to open-source web hosting management platform, serving as an excellent Plesk alternative. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible to a broad user base. The platform’s versatility shines through its capability to manage various server types, catering to a diverse audience with different server control needs. Ajenti provides a comprehensive set of tools for efficiently handling domain names, email systems, FTP, and databases.

Pros of Ajenti:

Free and Open-Source: Ajenti’s cost-free nature appeals to budget-conscious users.
User-Friendly Interface: The platform’s user interface is simple to use and anyone can use without facing any issues.
Customizable: Tailor Ajenti to suit your specific requirements.
Built-In Functions: Ajenti comes equipped with functions for managing various server types and tasks.
Plugin Availability: Expand functionality with the availability of plugins.

Cons of Ajenti:

Limited Community Support: Ajenti may lack the extensive support found in larger community-driven platforms.
Performance: Users may experience slightly slower performance compared to other control panels.
Lack of Advanced Features: Missing features like automatic software updates and backups might be a drawback for some users.
Not Ideal for High-Traffic Sites: Ajenti may not be the best fit for high-traffic websites or eCommerce stores.

2. CentOS Web Panel

CentOS Web Panel is a fantastic, no-cost control panel that puts the power of server management in your hands. It’s a great Plesk alternative, offering similar benefits but at a more budget-friendly price.

CentOS Web Panel is like your personal command center for web hosting. It’s open-source, meaning it won’t cost you a dime. Tailor your server experience with a dashboard that’s easy to customize, perfect for Linux servers.

In a nutshell, it matches Plesk’s perks but won’t break the bank. You get a reliable control panel with room for your personal touch.

Pros of CentOS Web Panel:

Free and User-Friendly: It won’t cost you a cent, and it’s designed to be straightforward for server management.
Active Community Support: Join a vibrant community ready to help if you run into any snags.
Convenient Features: Benefit from one-click installs, automated backups, and hassle-free DNS management.
Stability and Reliability: Known for being rock-solid, delivering a stable and reliable server experience.

Cons of CentOS Web Panel:

Not Beginner-Friendly: If you’re just starting out, its advanced features might be a bit overwhelming.
Software Bugs: Occasionally, you might encounter a hiccup, as with any software.
Limited Documentation: While there’s some documentation, it might not be as extensive as what you’d find with other control panels.

3. Cloudron

Cloudron streamlines the whole process of getting, handling and upkeeping web applications on your personal server. It’s your go-to Plesk alternative tool for effortlessly installing and overseeing a variety of web applications – from content management systems to communication tools and development frameworks, all wrapped up in a user-friendly interface. Cloudron stands out for individuals, businesses, or organizations craving control over their online applications while keeping things centralized and convenient.

Pros of Cloudron:

Effortless Installation and Management: It’s a breeze to set up and handle your web apps.
Support for Multiple Applications: From WordPress to NextCloud and GitLab, it’s got you covered.
Smooth Migration: Easily shift your apps from other platforms.
Flexible Server Options: Works seamlessly on both Linux and Windows.
Backup and Restoration: A piece of cake when it comes to securing and bringing back your applications.

Cons of Cloudron:

Pricing Concerns: Some users might find the starting price of $15/month a bit steep.
Limited Customization Options: Compared to other platforms, there might be fewer customization choices.

Also Check: Our Blog Post On cpanel alternatives

4. Froxlor

Froxlor steps in to simplify the complex world of web hosting and server configurations. Tailored for web hosting providers, system administrators, and individuals running their own servers, Froxlor comes packed with features to manage domains, email accounts, FTP accounts, databases, and more. Its user-friendly interface makes handling various aspects of web hosting and server administration a walk in the digital park.

Pros of Froxlor:

Open-Source and Free: It won’t cost you a penny, making it a wallet-friendly option.
User-Friendly Interface: Navigating and managing hosting environments is a breeze.
Comprehensive Features: From domain and IP management to PHP configuration and traffic monitoring, it covers a spectrum of needs.
Regular Updates: Stay up-to-date with frequent updates and ongoing development.

Cons of Froxlor:

Not Ideal for eCommerce: If you’re running a high-performance eCommerce store, Froxlor might not be the top pick for managed hosting.
Missing Advanced Features: It might lack some of the bells and whistles found in premium alternatives.
Technical Know-How Needed: Setting up and maintaining Froxlor requires a certain level of technical expertise.
Smaller Community Support: While support is available, it might not be as extensive as what you’d find with more popular alternatives.

5. iMSCP

i-MSCP, an abbreviation for Internet Multi Server Control Panel, is a valuable tool for overseeing hosting accounts on Linux servers, particularly beneficial for shared hosting providers.

This open-source Plesk alternative boasts a rich array of modules covering various services like Dovecot, ProFTPd, Apache2, bind9, and more. What sets it apart is its flexibility—users can extend functionalities through listener files or plugins utilizing the event-based API.

The user-friendly interface of i-MSCP empowers a range of users, from clients and resellers to administrators, allowing them to efficiently manage servers without the need for manual intervention.

Pros of i-MSCP:

Open-Source: As an open-source platform, i-MSCP provides a cost-effective solution for managing hosting accounts.
Versatile Module Support: Its abundance of modules covers a wide spectrum of services, offering flexibility and customization.
Event-Based API: The event-based API allows users to extend functionalities, enhancing the overall capabilities of the control panel.
User-Friendly Interface: The interface is designed for ease of use, enabling clients, resellers, and administrators to manage servers efficiently.

Cons of i-MSCP:

Learning Curve: Users might face a learning curve, especially when delving into extending functionalities through listener files or plugins.
Community Support: While support is available, it may not be as extensive as some more widely adopted control panels.
Dependency on Modules: The reliance on modules for different services may result in occasional compatibility issues or delays in updates.

6. ISPConfig

ISPConfig 3 stands out as an open-source Linux control panel capable of overseeing multiple servers seamlessly from a centralized dashboard. ISPConfig, a sought-after web hosting management platform, offers a suite of Linux-based server features. This equips users with an intuitive interface for effortlessly managing websites, email, and DNS servers. The user-friendly dashboard allows real-time monitoring of vital server performance metrics such as CPU usage and RAM consumption.

Pros of ISPConfig:

Open-Source and Free: A cost-effective solution for businesses looking to manage their hosting without breaking the bank.
Comprehensive Feature Set: ISPConfig boasts an array of features, covering web, mail, and DNS servers.
Community Support and Updates: Benefit from a robust community and regular updates, ensuring the panel stays current.
Multilingual Support: Catering to an international user base, ISPConfig supports multiple languages.
Multi-Server Management: Manage multiple servers seamlessly from a single control panel.

Cons of ISPConfig:

Limited Server Types: Primarily designed for Linux, limiting its compatibility with other server types.
Learning Curve: Non-technical users might find a steeper learning curve compared to more user-friendly alternatives.
Less Feature-Rich: While comprehensive, ISPConfig might lack some premium features found in alternatives like Plesk.
Not Ideal for High-Performance Hosting: May not be the top choice for high-performance managed hosting, particularly for eCommerce stores.
Limited Professional Support: Given its open-source nature, professional support availability may be restricted.

7. Sentora

Sentora stands as an open-source web hosting control panel, providing users with a centralized interface to manage websites, domains, email accounts, databases, and more. This free software has the power to transform any server into a user-friendly web hosting hub. Sentora’s feature set extends to creating and managing various services, ensuring a comprehensive hosting experience.

Sentora goes beyond the basics, offering capabilities like backup and restore, email management, SSL certificate management, and automated security patch updates.

Pros of Sentora:

Open-Source Customization: Its open-source nature allows users to customize and tailor it to their specific needs.
User-Friendly Interface: The interface is designed for ease of use, making it accessible for a diverse user base.
Wide Range of Features: Sentora covers a broad spectrum of hosting needs, from website management to email and databases.
Bandwidth and Service Quotas: Users can set quotas to manage bandwidth and service creation, ensuring optimal performance.

Cons of Sentora:

Limited Documentation: Users might find documentation somewhat lacking, potentially leading to a learning curve.
Occasional Bugs: Like any software, Sentora may encounter occasional bugs that could impact user experience.
Smaller Community: While support is available, the community might be smaller compared to more widely used control panels.
Feature Comparison: Some alternatives in the market may offer more advanced features and additional integrations.

Check Out: Our Blog Post On plesk control panel

8. TinyCP

TinyCP emerges as a user-friendly, free, and open-source web hosting control panel crafted for Linux servers. Its intuitive interface simplifies server administration, catering to both beginners and seasoned users navigating the intricacies of their web hosting environment.

Comprehensive Management: From websites and files to email accounts, SSL certificates, databases, and DNS zones, TinyCP centralizes the management of diverse server aspects in one dashboard.

Ease of Use: TinyCP prides itself on being easy to navigate, ensuring both novices and experienced users can make the most of its functionalities.

Pros of TinyCP:

Lightweight and Efficient: TinyCP doesn’t burden your system, offering a lightweight and efficient solution.

Easy Installation and Usage: Setting up and using TinyCP is a breeze, even for those new to server management.

Free and Open-Source: It won’t cost you a penny, and you have the freedom to customize as an open-source solution.

Regular Updates: The platform stays current with regular updates and ongoing improvements.

Cons of TinyCP:

Limited OS Support: Its compatibility might be limited when compared to other control panels.

Less Extensive Functionality: While comprehensive, some users might find it lacking in comparison to certain alternatives.

Smaller Community: Support is available, but the community might not be as extensive as larger panels.

Documentation: The available documentation may not be as detailed as what you’d find with more established alternatives.

9. Vesta Control Panel

Vesta Control Panel has emerged as a favorite among Linux users, offering an intuitive interface for seamless web server management and website administration. Positioned as a strong Plesk alternative, it caters to users seeking a reliable hosting control panel with a robust feature set, all within the open-source domain.

Pros of Vesta Control Panel:

Easy Installation and Setup: Getting started with the Vesta Control Panel is a breeze, simplifying the onboarding process.
User-Friendly Interface: The interface is designed with user convenience in mind, ensuring a smooth navigation experience.
Multiple Language Support: Vesta Control Panel accommodates users globally with support for multiple languages.
Integration with Popular Services: Seamless integration with services like Apache, Nginx, and MySQL enhances its versatility.
Robust Security Features: Security is a priority, with Vesta Control Panel boasting robust features to safeguard your hosting environment.
Free and Open-Source: It offers a cost-effective solution, aligning with its status as a free and open-source control panel.

Cons of Vesta Control Panel:

Technical Expertise Required: Effective operation may require a certain level of technical expertise, potentially posing a challenge for less experienced users.
Compatibility Concerns: Users might encounter compatibility issues with specific PHP or CentOS versions, necessitating careful consideration.
Not Ideal for Beginners/Browser-Based Operation: While user-friendly, it might not be the most suitable option for complete beginners or those who prefer browser-based operations.

10. Webmin

Webmin emerges as a stellar Plesk alternative, providing users the ability to manage Unix-like systems effortlessly through a web browser. With a rich array of functionalities, it facilitates tasks such as setting up user accounts, managing Apache servers, DNS configurations, file sharing, and more.

Webmin is an open-source web hosting control panel, featuring a user-friendly interface tailored for server management and system administration. It seamlessly integrates with Linux and Unix servers, offering a versatile solution for users operating on these systems. Webmin’s standout feature is its capacity to manage servers remotely via a web browser, providing flexibility for users on the move.

Pros of Webmin:

Flexibility and Customization: Webmin caters to user preferences, offering flexibility and customization options.
User-Friendly Interface: Its web-based interface is designed for user ease, simplifying server management tasks.
Active Community and Support: A thriving community ensures that users have ample support and resources when needed.
Free and Open-Source: Webmin aligns with budget-conscious users, as it is both free and open-source.

Cons of Webmin:

Occasional Bugs and Security Concerns: Like any software, users might encounter occasional bugs or security concerns.
Learning Curve: Complete beginners may face a learning curve, particularly when delving into advanced configurations.
Not as Fully-Featured as Plesk: While robust, Webmin may not offer the same extensive features as commercial options like Plesk.

11. DirectAdmin

DirectAdmin stands out as a paid cPanel and Plesk alternative, offering a seamless user interface for straightforward website management. Renowned for its fast performance, it enables real-time server administration without lags or delays.

DirectAdmin boasts minimal resource usage, ensuring efficiency in server management. With an easy installation process and an accessible interface, it prioritizes user convenience. It offers budget-friendly pricing options, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious users.

Pros of DirectAdmin:

Efficient Resource Usage: Minimal resource usage ensures a smooth and efficient server management experience.
User-Friendly Installation and Interface: Easy installation and an accessible interface contribute to a user-friendly experience.
Budget-Friendly Pricing: DirectAdmin provides cost-effective pricing options, appealing to those looking for economical solutions.

Cons of DirectAdmin:

OS Compatibility: While it supports multiple operating systems, some users may encounter compatibility issues compared to other panels.
Smaller Community: The community supporting DirectAdmin is smaller, resulting in less extensive support compared to larger panels.
Limited Features: DirectAdmin may offer fewer features compared to top alternatives in the control panel landscape.

12. CWP (Control WebPanel)

CWP, or Control WebPanel, is an open-source control panel designed for seamless server management in web hosting, offering a compelling Plesk alternative. It stands out for its innovative features and high-performance capabilities.

CWP distinguishes itself by placing a strong emphasis on security. Regular updates and stringent security protocols ensure robust protection against cyber threats. As a free and open-source option, CWP aligns with budget-conscious users seeking a cost-effective solution. It boasts a user-friendly interface, simplifying the complexities of server management for users. Its platform offers a wide range of features, enhancing its functionality for diverse hosting needs.

Pros of CWP:

Budget-Friendly Option: Being free and open-source, CWP is an economical choice for those mindful of their budget.
User-Friendly Interface: The interface is designed for user ease, making server management accessible.
Extensive Features: CWP covers a broad spectrum of features, accommodating various hosting requirements.
Integration with Popular Software: Seamless integration with popular software enhances its versatility for different users.

Cons of CWP:

Lack of Official Support: CWP may lack official support channels, potentially affecting users seeking dedicated assistance.
Tricky Installation: Some users might find the installation process challenging, requiring extra attention.
Limited Documentation: The available documentation may be limited compared to other control panels, impacting user guidance.

13. Serverpilot

ServerPilot distinguishes itself as a comprehensive website management solution, offering performance monitoring and system management capabilities that set it apart from other hosting control panels. While it may not be in the top 10 free Plesk alternatives, ServerPilot’s unique features make it stand out.

ServerPilot excels in performance monitoring, providing users with tools to monitor various aspects of their hosting environment in real-time. The platform offers real-time visibility into crucial system health metrics, including CPU usage, disk space utilization, memory usage, and network I/O. The platform facilitates easy deployment across different environments, enhancing its versatility.

Pros of ServerPilot:

Comprehensive Monitoring: ServerPilot covers a range of technologies, ensuring a thorough understanding of the hosting environment.
Real-time Visibility: Users gain real-time visibility into the health and performance of their IT infrastructures.
Advanced Analytics: The platform’s advanced analytics capabilities help users identify trends in data usage, supporting informed decision-making.
Popular Choice for Businesses: ServerPilot is widely embraced by businesses, attesting to its effectiveness in meeting professional hosting needs.
Easy Deployment: The platform simplifies deployment across different environments, contributing to its accessibility.

Cons of ServerPilot:

Setup Complexity: Beginners might find the setup process complicated, potentially posing a challenge.
Navigation Challenges: Accessing certain features may be cumbersome, affecting the overall user experience.

14. CyberPanel

CyberPanel emerged as a robust server management tool, gaining popularity as a noteworthy Plesk alternative. This open-source control panel offers users a user-friendly interface, simplifying the management of their Linux servers.

CyberPanel is an all-in-one solution, incorporating essential server features within its interface. A significant advantage is its compatibility with Linux and cloud hosting platforms like AWS and DigitalOcean. Users can seamlessly integrate their cloud hosting accounts and manage websites from a unified dashboard.

Pros of CyberPanel:

Comprehensive Feature Set: As an all-in-one panel, CyberPanel includes essential server features, offering a comprehensive solution.
Open-Source and Free: It aligns with budget-conscious users, being open-source and free to use.
User-Friendly Interface: The interface is designed for user ease, simplifying server management tasks.
High-Performance Results: CyberPanel delivers high-performance results with low overhead costs, making it an efficient choice.

Cons of CyberPanel:

Potential Bugs: Users might encounter potential bugs, especially with certain plugins and add-ons.
Limited Support: As a newer technology compared to cPanel, CyberPanel might have more limited support.

15. RunCloud

RunCloud emerges as a cloud hosting control panel with a focus on making server management efficient and user-friendly. Its intuitive interface simplifies the management of web hosting environments, offering a range of comprehensive features.

RunCloud stands out with powerful website management tools, including seamless SSL certificates, file manager functionality with FTP/SFTP access, and one-click backups for data recovery. From server monitoring to application deployment via Git integrations, RunCloud covers essential functionalities in a single cloud-based console, providing a feature-rich solution.

Pros of RunCloud:

Comprehensive Server and Website Management Features: RunCloud offers a broad array of features, covering both server and website management comprehensively.
Intuitive User Interface: The platform’s intuitive interface enhances user experience, making server management tasks accessible.
Supports Multiple Cloud Hosting Providers: RunCloud is versatile, supporting multiple cloud hosting providers, providing flexibility to users.
Regular Updates and Security Features: Regular updates and security features contribute to the platform’s reliability and performance.
Easy Integration with Popular Web Apps: RunCloud facilitates easy integration with popular web apps like WordPress, streamlining workflows.

Cons of RunCloud:

Not a Free Solution: RunCloud is not a free solution and may have associated costs, potentially impacting budget-conscious users.
Suitability for Advanced Users or Developers: It might be more suitable for advanced users or developers, potentially posing a challenge for beginners.
Limited Support for Shared Hosting Environments: RunCloud may have limited support for shared hosting environments, which could affect certain user needs.
Focus on Cloud Hosting: The platform’s focus on cloud hosting may not align with every user’s requirements, particularly those with different hosting needs.

Conclusion

Before you pick a Plesk alternative, think about what you really need. There are a bunch of free server control panels out there. Check which one has the features you want and works well with your hosting setup.

With this detailed guide of the Plesk alternative, we’ve covered a bunch of control panels. Each one is made for different types of users—whether you’re just starting or you’re a pro. They come with tools to help manage your hosting, apps, and websites in different ways. So, get the one that fulfills your needs best!