Virtual Private Server (VPS) is an intermediate step between a shared web host and a dedicated server.
With a VPS, you get your own operating system and virtual private network on your own partition.
A VPS also offers more control than a shared hosting account but at a lower cost and with less maintenance than a dedicated server.
A VPS is an excellent choice for businesses looking to expand without the costs and uptime risks of a dedicated server.
Read on to learn more about what a VPS is and how it can help grow your business.
What Is a VPS?
A virtual private server (VPS) is a virtual machine that shares a physical server with other VPS systems and possibly also with dedicated servers.
VPS hosting is a type of shared hosting where a single physical server is partitioned into multiple virtual servers (i.e, VPS servers).
The VPS provider is responsible for the hardware, but the customer has control over the operating system, application software, and the hosting environment.
VPS hosting can be more cost-effective than dedicated hosting, but less costly than a private server.
The term VPS Hosting refers to the hosting model where a single physical server is partitioned into multiple virtual servers (VPS). These VPSs are also referred to as containers or jails.
Each VPS has its own operating system and resources (e.g. CPU, memory, storage, etc.), but shares the underlying physical infrastructure with other VPSs.
How Does a VPS Help Your Business Grow?
A VPS gives you the flexibility to manage your server just as you would manage a normal dedicated server. This gives you more control over your technical environment, which makes it easier to scale up or down as needed.
A VPS can be shared with other businesses and hosted by the provider. This makes it a good choice if you’re short on capital or don’t have the time and skills required to maintain a dedicated server.
You’ll get virtual private server hosting with root-level access to your server OS. This gives you the freedom to install any software you need and set up as many websites as you want.
You’re billed per hour or per month, and your account manager will help you choose the right plan for your needs.
Pros of Using a VPS
No initial investment – A VPS requires no upfront investment, which makes it an affordable option for those starting out with low capital.
Scalable – VPS hosting scales with your business as it grows.
Hosted in a data center – The hosting center is an environment that is generally more secure than a rented space in your home.
Choice of operating system – You can choose from an array of operating systems.
Root access – You have complete control over your VPS.
Full administrative access – You can install any software you need and set up as many websites as you want.
More robust security – VPS hosting generally offers more robust security than a shared server.
Cons of Using a VPS
Difficulty in finding a reliable VPS provider – Finding and selecting a reliable VPS provider can be difficult. You need to carefully research a VPS provider before signing a contract.
High maintenance and support costs – You’ll have to pay for technical support and time spent on maintenance.
No dedicated IP address – You won’t get a dedicated IP address with a virtual private server.
Relatively expensive – Virtual private servers are generally more expensive than shared hosting.
When Should You Use a VPS?
You need more control over your server – A VPS is a good option if you need more control over your server and want to install software on it.
Your website traffic is growing – A VPS is also appropriate if your website traffic is growing, as you’ll be able to easily add more resources to handle a larger number of visitors.
You have few websites to host – If you have only a few websites to host, then shared hosting may be sufficient however, if you want to host websites on a much larger scale, a VPS may be the right hosting solution.
You have high expectations for uptime – A VPS is a good option if you have high expectations for uptime, as it gives you more control over the server.
Final Words
A virtual private server is a great choice for businesses that want more control over their hosting environment without paying for the high cost of a dedicated server.
With a VPS, you get your own operating system, root-level access to your server OS, and the ability to scale up or down as needed.
Additionally, a VPS is hosted in a data center, which is generally a more secure environment than a rented space in your home.