Right now, I'm contemplating on a variety of widely used hosting control panels that are free. Each of them has its own distinct and remarkable features. However, I'm still uncertain which one to ultimately opt for.

Here are some options you can choose from:

- Control Web Panel
- Virtualmin
- Vesta Control Panel
- Ajenti
- BlueOnyx
- Froxlor
- Webmin
and more. For additional free panels, visit https://www.stackscale.com/blog/popular-web-hosting-control-panels/

I would recommend cPanel. I myself use it. Its advantages:
-stability;
-availability of technical support;
- a large set of available software;
- the ability to fine-tune the operation of the Apache web server.
The only negative, as for me, is the lack of a free trial. In general, this panel is very convenient.

I had working experience with free and non-free control panels for hosting, and actually free were more convenient for me. Thus, I can highlight the DirectAdmin and Control Web Panel(CWP) as the most convenient for this. They are completely free and really on the top, comparing to other free panels:)

FastPanel is a hosting control panel product from FastVPS that was initially developed for the company's clients but is now accessible to anyone. While some people may be put off by having to rely on a hosting company, the product offers great functionality.

Some of its main features include automatic installation of Apache, Nginx, various PHP versions and modules for PHP, MySQL, PostgreSQL, Let's Encrypt SSL certificate support, a file manager, SSH client, backup system, firewall management, fine-tuning site properties, virus scanning via AI-Bolit, one-click application installation, among others. With FastPanel, newcomers can easily add a new site by going through a series of questions clarifying site details.

Another notable player in the market is ISPConfig, which has been developing since 2006 and is updated twice a year. It has a large number of fans and users, detailed documentation, and similar functionality to other control panels like automatic installation of Apache, Nginx, MySQL database server, mail server, FTP server, PHP or support for resellers. However, unlike the other two control panels mentioned earlier, it provides support for Ruby and Python.

aaPanel, a relatively new player in the market, offers support for a variety of software and rich functionality, including OpenLiteSpeed, PHP, Redis, Git, Docker, MongoDB, Tomcat, Python, Node.js, Java with web-based installation, one-click installation of CMSs like WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, backups to FTP, S3, Google Cloud, and Google Drive, as well as the standard features like managing sites, domains, databases, mailboxes, FTP accounts, and Cron tasks, file manager with code editor.

For clients with simpler needs, such as small business owners or bloggers, cPanel may be an excellent choice due to its user-friendly interface and extensive range of features. It is well-suited for those who are new to managing their own hosting environments and may require a more intuitive platform.

On the other hand, for clients with more complex hosting requirements, such as those who need to manage multiple websites or require advanced customization options, Plesk may be the better option. Its support for Docker, Git, and multi-server management can be particularly beneficial for clients handling diverse and demanding projects. Additionally, Plesk's focus on security and scalability makes it a compelling choice for clients who prioritize these aspects.

When assessing the decision between cPanel and Plesk, it's crucial to consider the level of technical expertise of the client. For clients who are less familiar with hosting management, cPanel's ease of use is a significant advantage. However, for clients with a more advanced technical background, Plesk's extensive customization options and server management capabilities may offer greater flexibility and control.

Moreover, the specific needs of the client's website or application also play a significant role in influencing the choice between these two control panels. For example, if a client's website or application relies heavily on specific software or requires certain integrations, it is essential to consider which control panel better supports those requirements.

It's also worth noting that support and community resources should be taken into consideration. The availability of documentation, tutorials, and community forums for each control panel can significantly impact the client's ability to troubleshoot issues and maximize the potential of the chosen platform.
The decision between cPanel and Plesk should be made in close consultation with the client, taking into account their technical proficiency, specific hosting requirements, and long-term goals. By carefully evaluating these factors and providing tailored recommendations, the most suitable hosting control panel can be selected to meet the client's unique needs.