VPS stands for Virtual Private Server, a solution that effectively bridges the gap between the limitations of shared hosting and the flexibility of dedicated server hosting. Each virtual server is completely independent of its neighbors and looks and feels like a traditional physical server. In a true VPS environment, each Virtual Server has dedicated processing, memory, and storage. Hosting Virtual Servers leverages the redundancy of the hardware and data center security.
Here are some of the benefits that come along with VPS hosting:
What Are the Benefits of VPS Hosting?
Cost: A VPS hosting account is less expensive than a full dedicated server plan that uses a physical server. It also eliminates the need for large CAPEX or leases to purchase necessary hardware. Purchasing a physical server requires you to see into the future and plan for growth, technology and business needs for the next 3 to 6 years. Doing this requires a large capital expense to purchase capacity that is not needed today, may never be needed, or may not be enough in the future. Using a VPS allows for more cost-conscious deployment of services.
Scalability:
Many VPS plans can be customized to meet your needs so you pay for what you want but you do not need to deal with any features you will never need. This allows you to expand or contract based on technical needs. You do not have to pay for resources until you need them. You have the freedom to choose the operating system and software you want to install on the server. Resources increment with your business needs.
Access: A quality hosting provider will grant you root access to the virtual servers. With root access, you have complete control over the server environment to tweak it precisely for your needs. If you need a custom software package installed or port opened, you can do so without having to wait for your hosting provider to support it.
Stability: Unlike shared hosting, the traffic and activities of other VPS customers will not adversely affect your operation. CPU and Memory resources are dedicated to each Virtual Server to prevent rogue servers from impacting other.
Performance – Having your own allotment of resources allows you and your visitors to enjoy faster load times. A quality hosted environment provides speed, security, redundancy, and reliability.
Optional Features to look for…
The features and services of VPS hosting vary depending on the provider. Although the ones you will need all depends on personal requirements, here are a few you may want to look out for:
Management and Support: Similar to a dedicated hosting account, VPS hosting calls for you to manage your own server. However, there are many companies that provide support and management services to assist with administrative tasks. This feature is invaluable if you lack the time or the technical knowledge.
Server Monitoring: A good VPS provider will actively monitor its network and hardware your account relies on. This ensures the physical security of the server and also helps defend against virtual threats such as hackers, malicious software and DDoS attacks.
Managed Data Backups: As with any hosting solution, a VPS plan should offer a way to back up your data. Because anything could occur within the provider’s network, it is recommended that you choose a service that allows you to manually backup your own data to assure that it can be restored at any time.
Conclusion
VPS hosting offers an inexpensive way to get many of the features, resources, control, and flexibility of a more costly and complex dedicated server. With the technology increasing in popularity, prices are dropping rapidly, assuring that you can find a reliable VPS solution that meets your hosting needs. With the security and flexibility, VPS hosting offers to users at a fraction of the cost, it’s a practical option for businesses of all sizes.