As the world of tech expands and the business realm grows along with it, there are a lot of buzzwords that tend to make their way around the atmosphere. However, at times, an idea arises that takes the world by storm and completely changes the way we look at and operate in certain fields and environments when performing particular tasks. Web hosting has been one such trend. It has become a part and parcel of business and organisational infrastructure to the extent that it is almost impossible to fathom a large and successful corporation or a new startup that is not using web hosting services. Along with shared and dedicated servers, there exists VPS hosting that essentially gives you the best of both worlds.
The VPS or the Virtual Private Server is exactly as the name suggests: it is a virtual server which has its own operating system but allows you dedicated use in a shared environment. This means that you get the privacy or exclusivity of a dedicated server while the server is housed on the shared space of the internet hosting service you are associated with. So, it essentially works and offers the benefits of a dedicated server but at half the price, or even less.
Table of Contents
How Does VPS Work?
When you rent a VPS, you basically buy a server which virtually runs a number of different operating systems. In addition, the server can have each OS behave and operate as if they were being hosted on their very own dedicated server. Think of it as a physical location or a mall that we divide into several small shops. If you want to visit a different store, or use a different operating system, you do not need to visit a different mall or access a different physical server. You can simply switch to another virtualised compartment on your VPS that acts as a dedicated server for that particular OS.
Why Should You Look into VPS Hosting?
Customisation
At the essence of it all, the server is yours to do with as you please. You can install special software, run your own applications, and make whatever changes you want to whenever you have time. In come cases, you can ask your service provider to make these changes for you. Whereas, on a shared hosting network this would be virtually impossible. VPS it prevents you from getting into the hassle of not having the changes implemented the way you want them.
Speed and efficiency
Considering that you are not the only one using the server but still you are using your own allocated resources that are not shared by other users. Your website will experience much better load times and smoother functioning, allowing you to give a much better service to your customers.
Increased security
Since no one else is sharing your server with you, your files are relatively more secure as there are much lesser chances of any other individual or organisation using the same service accessing your data and files. You also no longer have to rely on the inbuilt security that the service already offers and can instead opt for applications that you feel are necessary for your business and operations.
Full creativity and control
Since your VPS is basically a private server, you can perform any action at any time without worrying about how it would impact others users. In some VPS environment you can even restart the server or make any changes without impacting anyone else who is also utilising that particular provider’s services.
Relatively cheaper
What is arguably the best part about VPS hosting is that it gives you the benefits of a dedicated server. It even does this for a fraction of the cost of the price. This quality makes it much more feasible and suitable to use.
Handle high levels traffic
If you experience dense traffic on your website or have a very large set up you will need more storage or RAM to store salient files. But no worries, you can do this easily with a VPS. Plus you won’t spend as much as you would on a dedicated server or additional physical infrastructure.
Flexibility
Customisation and control of the server is in your hands for the most part, so you can always increase the storage and Ram as you wish. Using a VPS adds an element of flexibility to your operations. It gives you the option of expanding and growing the scale and scope of your business. Plus, there’s no need to change servers. And best of all no reason to make significant investments in organisational and infrastructure modifications.
Managed vs. Unmanaged VPS Hosting
The prime difference between managed and unmanaged VPS hosting is essentially the amount of work that you or your service provider would be doing throughout your association. If you opt for a managed VPS, your service provider would do most of the behind the scenes heavy lifting. Leaving you only to perform tasks related to your business. The service provider would look after the security, integrity, maintenance, upkeep, updating, and configuration of the server. Ultimately, this lessens the degree of work you have to put in. Plus, there is no need to manage technicalities and other essentials of the VPS server that you are using.
With an unmanaged VPS, you not only have to look after your business operation, but you also have to ensure the maintenance, configuration, and security of the server among several other things. While this may give you more control over the service, it also adds to the burden on your resources. Since, you will certainly require trained and skilled personnel for server management and maintenance purposes.
What does VPS Hosting Permit in Terms of Software?
Once you purchase a VPS hosting service, there is practically no software limitations. The only limitation would be the allocated memory or RAM in your purchased package. Most VPS servers support any and all operating systems and software.
Conclusion
Finally, we’ve broken down the most important questions and topics concerning VPS Hosting. So, you can now examine your business’ needs to determine the level of control, RAM and memory you need.
