May 28th, 2025
Understanding Dedicated Servers: Self-Managed vs. Managed vs. Fully Managed
If your business is growing and demanding more robust hosting solutions, dedicated servers may be the next logical step. Unlike shared or VPS hosting, dedicated servers give you full control over a physical server, providing superior performance, security, and flexibility.
For a more detailed overview of why dedicated servers are a powerful option, see our article The Benefits of Using a Dedicated Server.
However, when it comes to managing a dedicated server, not all options are created equal. At Sectorlink, we offer three levels of server management: self-managed, managed, and fully managed. Here's what you need to know to choose the best fit for your needs.
Self-Managed Dedicated Servers
A self-managed (or unmanaged) dedicated server puts you in full control. You are responsible for installing software, configuring the server, performing updates, and maintaining security.
Best for: Experienced system administrators or development teams who want full root access and have the time and expertise to manage the server environment themselves.
- Pros:
- Complete control over server configuration
- Lower monthly cost
- Flexibility to install any software stack
- Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- Time-consuming to maintain
- You are responsible for troubleshooting issues
Want to learn how dedicated servers compare to other options like bare metal servers? Read Understanding Managed Dedicated Servers and Bare Metal Servers.
Managed Dedicated Servers
A managed dedicated server offers a middle ground. You still maintain control, but our support team assists with core services such as OS updates, monitoring, and troubleshooting basic issues.
Best for: Businesses with some technical knowledge who want support with routine maintenance and critical tasks without giving up all control.
- Pros:
- Assistance with security patches and updates
- Server monitoring included
- You retain some customization capabilities
- Cons:
- Slightly higher cost than self-managed
- Some server management knowledge still needed
See how managed hosting can benefit your business in our article 3 Benefits of Managed Dedicated Servers for Your Business.
Fully Managed Dedicated Servers
With a fully managed dedicated server, Sectorlink handles virtually everything: software installation, security hardening, backups, performance monitoring, and around-the-clock support.
Best for: Businesses that want hands-off hosting and need to focus entirely on growth and development instead of server management.
- Pros:
- 24/7 expert support
- Proactive monitoring and issue resolution
- Stress-free maintenance and optimization
- Cons:
- Higher monthly cost, but justified by time savings and peace of mind
Learn what to expect from top-tier hosting: What to Expect From the Best Dedicated Server Hosting.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing the right level of server management depends on your business's technical capabilities, budget, and how much time you are willing to invest in server upkeep.
- Tech-savvy startups might opt for self-managed for flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
- Growing businesses with limited IT staff often go for managed to strike a balance.
- Enterprises needing total reliability and support usually choose fully managed.
For help comparing options, check out How to Find the Best Dedicated Server for Your Business.
Ready to Power Your Business with Dedicated Servers?
No matter your level of expertise or support needs, Sectorlink has the perfect dedicated server solution for you. Explore our full range of plans, compare features, and get started today.
Visit our Dedicated Server Hosting page to learn more and choose your server.