January 4th, 2019
What is a VPS ( Virtual Private Server / Cloud Server )?
Simply put, it is a server running within a server. Typically a VPS hosts a few virtual servers within a single server unit and essentially is a server that hosts multiple shared servers.
What is a Dedicated Server?
A dedicated server is a single server within a network that is used for serving the needs of an individual or a company. In other words, it is a server that is “dedicated” to that individual or company’s needs. It does not share its resources with any other entity.
So which is better suited for your needs? Latency, cost-effectiveness, and resource requirements are the most critical decision-making requirements in choosing a VPS or dedicated server solution. Here are a few things to consider when deciding which is best for you.
1. Accessing your VPS/Dedicated Server Remotely
Unlike shared web hosting, your VPS or dedicated server will allow you to administer your server remotely. This will enable you to manage your server with either root access (Linux) or remote desktop (Windows). As a result, both VPS and dedicated solutions are equally effective in having more direct control in managing your server.
2. Custom Software
Both VPS and dedicated servers will allow you to install third-party software. This means you can install specific software that is tailored to your business that you would typically not be allowed to install in a shared web hosting environment.
3. Latency
VPS servers have much less latency issues than shared web hosting. However, because you are still technically in a shared server solution, data throughput can still be affected. If you notice that your VPS data throughput begins to change, a dedicated server solution will always result in faster website load and response times.
4. Cost-Effectiveness vs. Resource Requirements
Initially, you and/or your company may consider finances when choosing a hosting solution. Many companies start with shared web hosting. However, when a website begins to utilize resources that go beyond what a hosting company will allow for shared web hosting, they may require you to move into a VPS or Dedicated server.
While a little more expensive, VPS is far better than shared web hosting because it will offer more resources (i.e., drive space, memory, and processing power). However, bear in mind that while the resources are a bit larger than shared web hosting, you still have resource limitations compared to a dedicated server solution.
If your website is resource-intensive and beyond the scope of a VPS solution, then a dedicated server will be your best option. There is almost no limit to the resources your dedicated server can have as your host (link to https://www.sectorlink.com/dedicatedservers/) can build any solution that is required.
Conclusion
Taking your time to ensure that you make the right decision between choosing a VPS or a dedicated solution will affect the way you do business now and into the future. Don’t take shortcuts that will prove to be costly in the end.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.