Is there any free control panel available for VPS and VDS and if yes, can you suggest the best one?
Also, what should be considered while selecting a free control panel?

Currently, one of the best control panels is aaPanel, which is continually evolving and offers NGINX and SQL builds for AliExpress, as well as OpenLiteSpeed Server. It has a built-in application store that enables the implementation of multiple projects, support for Python manager, Node.js, Java, Docker, Mongo DB, Postgre SQL, and much more. It supports various caching methods and DNS management, a functional mail server, and settings optimized for different configurations. With many backup options, it is a must-have.

Fastpanel, on the other hand, is a user-friendly and functional control panel with everything you need, especially for managing WordPress sites. While it has good functionality and high speed, it lacks flexibility and nuance that prevents it from being the top choice. Its interface is clear, and no special settings are required.

Webinoly is a console control panel optimized for WordPress, with the LEMP stack—Linux Ubuntu + Nginx + MariaDB (MySQL) + PHP. Its primary drawback is that it is console-based and requires specific knowledge.

While there are other paid control panels such as ISP Manager, personally, these free control panels are not inferior to them, especially when managing a small number of sites or for specific purposes. It's worth noting that currently, aaPanel is the only control panel working correctly with Ubuntu 22.04.

Common Free Control Panels

Webmin
Overview: Webmin is a versatile tool designed for server management through a web interface. It supports various operating systems, including Linux and FreeBSD.
Features: It provides user management, disk quota settings, file management, and service management. Webmin is modular, allowing users to add additional functionality via modules.
Use Case: It's ideal for system administrators seeking detailed control and customization of their server environments.

Virtualmin
Overview: Virtualmin is built on top of Webmin and is particularly focused on managing multiple virtual hosts.
Features: It offers domain management, database management, email account administration, and automated DNS management. SSL certificate management is also included.
Use Case: Perfect for resellers or users managing multiple web domains and customer accounts.

CentOS Web Panel (CWP)
Overview: CWP is specifically targeted at CentOS-based distributions. It provides a user-friendly interface for server management.
Features: CWP includes tools for user management, automatic updates, performance monitoring, and web application management. Firewall management and backup features are also part of the package.
Use Case: This is suited for users familiar with CentOS who seek a straightforward interface for managing web hosting.

Ajenti
Overview: Ajenti is recognized for its modern and responsive web interface, making it appealing to new users in server management.
Features: It offers basic server administration tools, monitoring capabilities, VPN services, and file management. Ajenti can be extended with a variety of plugins.
Use Case: Best for users who appreciate a visually appealing interface while retaining essential management features.

HestiaCP
Overview: HestiaCP is a modern fork of VestaCP that focuses on ease of use while maintaining essential server management capabilities.
Features: It includes user accounts, web domain management, mail server setup, and application installers. HestiaCP also has a built-in firewall and one-click backup options.
Use Case: Ideal for those seeking a combination of simplicity and robust functionality.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Free Control Panel

Ease of Use: The user interface should be intuitive, allowing you to perform server management tasks efficiently. An easy-to-navigate layout enhances your experience.

dоcumentation and Community Support: Comprehensive dоcumentation is crucial for understanding features and troubleshooting issues. An active community can provide essential support through forums or other channels.

Feature Set: Evaluate the functionalities you require. Different control panels may excel in specific areas, so ensure the panel you choose meets your project needs.

Operating System Compatibility: Confirm that the control panel is compatible with your server's operating system. Some are specifically designed for particular distributions, such as CentOS or Ubuntu.

Security Features: Given the potential risks of online servers, select a control panel that offers security measures, such as automatic updates, SSL management, and effective firewall options.

Performance: Assess how a control panel can impact server performance. A lightweight panel that minimizes resource usage will enable better performance for hosted applications and websites.

Scalability: If you plan to expand your projects, ensure that the control panel can handle an increasing number of websites or applications without significant performance issues.

Backup Options: A reliable control panel should provide effective backup functionalities. This is critical for data protection and disaster recovery.

While there are various free control panels available for VPS and VDS, choosing one that aligns with your needs requires careful consideration of user experience, support, functionality, and security. Taking the time to evaluate these aspects will help you select the best tool for seamless server management and optimization.

Yes, there are several free control panels available for VPS (Virtual Private Servers). Popular options include Webmin, an open-source tool with extensive features for system management; VestaCP, known for its simplicity and user-friendly interface; and ISPConfig, which supports multiple servers and a wide range of functionalities. These control panels offer essential features for managing VPS environments, such as web hosting, email services, and DNS management, without incurring additional costs. However, they may have limitations compared to paid alternatives in terms of support and advanced features.