VPS hosting refers to a system where there is a server that is partitioned to produce multiple virtual servers, each functioning independent of the others. In VPS hosting, each virtual server will run a copy of its preferred operating system and the client will enjoy superuser-level access to this OS. This will enable the customer to configure the server settings to accommodate his business requirements. The VPS hosting basically acts like a bridge between shared hosting and dedicated hosting because the client can enjoy benefits of a dedicated server while residing on the same physical server with other users. VPS server hosting therefore mimics dedicated hosting within a shared hosting environment.
How does VPS hosting work?
VPS hosting differs from both shared hosting and dedicated hosting. In shared hosting, a single server is shared amongst multiple users. In dedicated hosting a single server caters to the computing needs of a single organization only. For smaller businesses or medium sized businesses that are looking to expand, a shared hosting plan may not suffice and they will need additional resources which dedicated hosting can offer. At the same time, such businesses may not have the funds to afford a dedicated server. This is when VPS hosting can come of use. VPS hosting is therefore ideally suited for businesses which are expanding and wish to get their feet wet before choosing a dedicated server. It is a good launch pad for businesses which may lack the technical expertise to use dedicated hosting.
In VPS hosting, there may be multiple servers and each may run its own OS; each of these virtual operating systems work like a dedicated server. This is why clients can enjoy advantages of dedicated hosting at a fraction of the cost. It successfully bridges the gap between flexibility of dedicated hosting and limitations of shared hosting plans.
What are the benefits of VPS hosting?
- With VPS hosting, you can enjoy a high degree of stability because the web traffic to others’ sites will not cause your site to slow down unlike in shared hosting where the activities of co-users can slow down your site.
- In VPS hosting, you can enjoy additional resources because you have the freedom to configure your server settings. This ensures faster web page loading and enhances your site’s performance.
- With this type of hosting, you can enjoy additional resources like greater RAM and CPU allowing your business to grow further.
- You can choose the operating system you want and you have the freedom to install your preferred applications and programs on your virtual server.
- The root access to the OS grants you more control over the server and other software installations. You can control all actions from the control panel interface.
- With VPS hosting providers, you can benefit from managed services. You will find many companies which will offer management services and this is great advantage when you do not have sufficient technical expertise to monitor and manage the server on your own.
- You can also benefit from enhanced security measures because these providers will ensure that your site is protected against hackers and malicious software. Many VPS hosting providers will offer plans which enable you to host many websites at the same time without facing performance issues.
- Like every other hosting option, you can enjoy backup facilities. It is recommended that you choose a provider that will allow you to back up the data manually so that it may be retrieved any time you need it.
These are some of the major benefits of VPS hosting that has made it a popular a viable hosting option for millions of small and middle-sized businesses. When choosing VPS providers however, there are some factors that you need to take into account.
- To begin with, you must investigate as to the amount of RAM you will be entitled to. It is advisable to choose 512MB RAM at the least to ensure fast loading speed.
- You should also find out whether the provider offers both unmanaged and managed VPS hosting. While unmanaged VPS offers only root access, managed VPS offers server monitoring and management services too. This is slightly more expensive but a better option because the server is administered by a professional administrator. Users can save effort and time and use them for developing other important business areas.
- You must also find out about the uptime guarantee the provider offers; without a 99.9% guarantee, investing in VPS plans may be futile. A good way to know which providers are reliable and trustworthy is to read through customer reviews.
- Finally, you must consider the rates being charged; VPS plans are expected to be more affordable than dedicated server hosting but choosing the cheapest plans may not be wise because they may not be effective.
So, it is wise to choose a VPS hosting provider that allows you to try out its plans for a time-period free of cost. Alternately, a money-back guarantee will allow you to discontinue the provider’s plans if you are not satisfied with them.