What is VPS hosting?

What is VPS hosting?

A Virtual Private Server (VPS) is like a server in a bigger server. I know the statment is a little confusing but please don’t get panic about it.
The actual concept behind VPS is very simple – basically what VPS hosting providers do is to split a server into multiple smaller size individual servers (using virtualization technology) and rent it out to different customers. Each of these virtual servers looks and feels the same like a dedicated server except for one thing – they share the same hardware with one another.
How You Can You Benefit from VPS Hosting

Virtual private servers are designed to provide customers with a way to save money without the sacrifice of performance, flexibility and security. VPS hosting can be viewed as the perfect compromise between a shared and dedicated server, as it provides a great deal of freedom at what is usually a very reasonable price.

Here are more specific details on how you can benefit from a virtual private server:

1. Incredible Value - A VPS hosting solution can provide you with a tremendous value. While a dedicated server could end up costing you well over $100 per month, the price of a virtualized platform is usually not too far removed from shared hosting. The distinct makeup of VPS technology allows the cost of the hardware, software, network connectivity and maintenance to be efficiently distributed without compromising your quality.
2. Enhanced Protection - A virtual private server can ensure far better security than what is provided on a shared hosting platform. With the server running in the comfort of its own isolated environment, you are shielded from the stability and security issues originated by other users. Though a dedicated server offers the best performance and security, VPS hosting is not too far behind.
3. Freedom and Flexibility - What makes VPS hosting so comparable to a dedicated server is the control and flexibility it grants to you. In most arrangements, you have the option of utilizing various provided add-on scripts or installing your own custom applications. This is enabled by root access that allows you to interact deeply with the server. In terms of customization, you are generally allowed to create applications in whatever programming technologies installed on the server, be it PHP, ASP or Cold Fusion.
4. Guaranteed Power - Another major plus of VPS hosting is that it provides you with guaranteed system resources. Unlike in a shared hosting environment, you do not have to compete for most resources and have the luxury to receive accurately measured allotments that fit your specific needs. This, in turn, provides you with a robust, scalable solution that gives your business the room it needs to grow.

VPS Hosting Concerns

VPS hosting offers many advantages over its shared counterpart, but there are some disadvantages that warrant your attention. First and foremost, you should know that this solution is very much like a dedicated server in the way it requires you to actively maintain the server. This usually includes applying security patches and system updates, which could possibly take your time and focus away from other critical aspects of the business. When problems arise in your virtual environment, it is your responsibility to resolve them via remote administration.

Another concern is a drawback to remind you that VPS hosting is still a grade below the power of a dedicated server. While you have a guaranteed allotment of system resources, you are still required to share hardware assets with other VPS users hosting on the physical server. For this reason, a virtual private server cannot achieve the stability and optimal performance of the dedicated variety.

Do You Need a Virtual Private Server?

A VPS hosting plan can be the solution to all of your needs. However, due to the technical aspects and minor drawbacks involved, you need to give this option careful consideration before making a final decision. The best way to decide would be to access your needs and current hosting predicament. If your website is thriving on a shared server, then virtualization is probably a technology you could do without. However, if you find that this environment can no longer deliver the performance and level of security you require, VPS hosting could be the next step towards expanding on your web presence.

Final words about VPS hosting
There, I have put down all the important points about VPS hosting and I hope it helps you to understand and to choose your right web hosting.
Before you move on, there is still one last thing you should know – Do you need a VPS hosting? This, question, unfortunately, can be only answered by you. You’ll have to justify if a VPS hosting is necessary (or sufficient) for your website. What’s your 12 months plan for the website? How busy do you estimate your website will be? What are the custom applications to be installed? These are some of the must-ask questions and prevent yourself from overspending.
With that, I’ll end this article and good luck if you are shopping for the new VPS hosting!