A virtual private server (VPS) runs on a powerful physical server and is based on an operating system kernel. This is typically accomplished through the use of various platforms such as KVM, OpenVZ, or Virtuozzo. The static nature of the kernel and OS is what distinguishes VPS hosting from all other hosting solutions. This is one of the reasons why VPS hosting plans are so popular.
Advantages of VPS Hosting
VPS hosting provides a unified service and creates a functional working environment for its customers by combining web hosting with a virtual server. Customers will receive the necessary amount of resources, such as disk performance, required processor power, and memory, regardless of their chosen tariff. Furthermore, with VPS hosting, customers don’t need to share these resources with other websites, which is a common issue with shared hosting.
Who Benefits from VPS Hosting?
VPS hosting is commonly used by:
- Business owners looking to provide remote access to their employees
- Massive online retailers
- Bloggers and website owners who receive over 1000 daily visitors
Managed VPS Services
With VPS hosting, the hosting provider is the one responsible for server management. The client, on the other hand, becomes the administrator of their own virtual server. Complete autonomy is preferable, but the professional control provided by the hosting company is still necessary.
Such control is provided by managed hosting services, whereas unmanaged VPS gives the client complete responsibility for software installation, control panel usage, maintenance, configuration, and security measures. Unmanaged VPS clients are responsible for dealing with server outages or security issues on their own. As a result, this option is best suited for experienced system administrators.
A managed VPS is the best option for regular business owners. With a managed VPS, clients receive round-the-clock support from the provider’s professional system administrators.
How to Pick the Best VPS Hosting Provider?
Numerous hosting companies provide various services, but their prices and features vary greatly. Technical support, secure operations, advanced server equipment, data center location, DDoS attack prevention, cloud technologies, management services, and licensed software can all help improve these services. So, before deciding on a provider, you should do your research and compare multiple providers and the services they offer.
Things to Consider When Choosing a VPS Hosting Provider
1. Reliability
Providers frequently claim to guarantee nearly 100% server reliability, but this isn’t always the case. The most effective method to ensure server reliability is to look for customer feedback and compare reviews from different sources. You should ideally aim for a minimum reliability level of 99.95%.
2. Control Panel
Server administration can be simplified by using user-friendly control panels such as ISPmanager, cPanel, Plesk, and others. Hosts may also provide their own tools for configuring and managing virtual servers, databases, mail, domains, and other essential features.
3. Service Fees
The final cost of a VPS is influenced by factors such as server type (managed or unmanaged) and available resources. It is worth noting that certain providers offer a refund option if the client is dissatisfied within the first 14 days of using the service.
Some providers may require upfront payment for several months or even a year, but this can be risky if the client is unsure about the quality of the service. Start by paying one month in advance and take your time evaluating the server’s performance.
4. Additional IP Addresses
Obtaining additional IP addresses can be useful in a variety of situations, like when assigning a unique IP address to each virtual server site or installing SSL certificates. It is also possible to assign different IP addresses to different services. Furthermore, additional IP addresses may be required when a website has multiple domains in different languages.
5. Configuration
This parameter assesses application performance by taking into account critical factors such as memory capacity, number of processor cores, processor speed, and others. Before making any decisions, you must obtain this information from the service provider.
Some popular providers use obsolete servers that are over a decade old, which can lead to many unexpected costs. It is recommended that you choose a provider that is open about the capabilities of its servers.
6. Bandwidth and Traffic
VPS providers frequently offer limited bandwidth and may charge a fee if usage exceeds a certain amount, such as 1TB. As a result, before choosing a hosting provider, inquire about any potential additional fees.
7. Data Center’s Location
For optimal performance, it is best to locate the server as close to the end user as possible. After you activate the service, you get access to statistics that show the best possible locations for the server. If your visitors are spread across different geographical regions, you might want to think about making copies of the server. However, remember that there may be some delays during the synchronization process.
8. Technical Support
Regardless of how powerful your server is, you still might run into some problems. Any responsible provider must offer technical support. When selecting a provider, consider the location of their support team and whether you can effectively communicate with them.
However, relying solely on the provider’s standard support is risky. Standard support is typically limited to services offered by the provider and does not extend to other areas, such as website downtime due to software errors. In such cases, a personal system administrator who is familiar with the server settings is a lifesaver.
Conclusion
All in all, VPS hosting is a popular solution for websites looking to upgrade from their shared hosting plan. If you are unsure of which provider to choose, look for a company that offers a trial period. The provider’s trial period allows you to evaluate the quality of the VPS, examine its parameters, and decide whether to proceed with the partnership.
