Web Hosting Articles » Switching Your Business to VPS Hosting
In the past few years the power and popularity of cloud computing has gone from speculation to reality. However, cloud computing is much more than offsite storage and synching for your iPhone. Cloud computing is now integral to the operation of thousands of businesses throughout the UK and the world.
One particular application of cloud computing that is becoming increasingly popular with businesses is a virtual private server (VPS). A VPS is an offsite server system that replaces a local dedicated server at a fraction of the cost. VPS hosting is available as a managed or unmanaged service depending on how much control over the system is required.
How VPS Hosting Works
A VPS is located in a bank of physical servers that reside and are operated by a VPS host. Each physical server contains several virtual private servers, but each VPS is completely separate from the other. Every VPS on the same server shares some of the resources of the server, but each has its own operating system, storage and bandwidth.
In unmanaged VPS hosting, the VPS host performs routine server maintenance, while you are responsible for upkeep of your VPS. This includes the installation and operation of software, software upgrades and disc cleanup.
With managed VPS hosting, the VPS host performs as much of the operating of your system as you require. Many businesses that go with managed VPS hosting never touch the system at all. They simply tell the VPS host what they want and they rest is done for them.
VPS Hosting Pros and Cons
VPS hosting offers several advantages for most businesses, especially small and medium-sized businesses. Some companies experience a few disadvantages of VPS hosting, but most of them agree that such disadvantages are nothing when compared to the benefits.
The following are some of the greatest benefits of switching to a VPS:
• Value – Value is the number one benefit of a VPS. A VPS requires no upfront hardware costs other than a standard desktop terminal or laptop computer to access the VPS. In addition, a VPS does not require the level of IT staff that is needed when you operate a local dedicated server. If you use managed VPS hosting, you will not need any IT staff at all.
• Flexibility – VPS systems are very flexible. You can use them to install your own scripts or custom applications in addition to any other software you require. A VPS can also be upscaled or downscaled to meet the demands of business growth or a changing business environment.
• Security – Most VPS hosts protect their customers with the most powerful security systems available. These security systems are too expensive for most businesses, but with a VPS you will have access to this protection.
The known disadvantages of VPS hosting are few and do not usually cause a problem for most businesses. These disadvantages include the following:
• Maintenance – If you have an unmanaged VPS, you will have to maintain it like you would a dedicated server. However, you will not have physical access to the server, so maintenance must be performed remotely.
• Power – A VPS does not have the power of a dedicated server because some resources are shared with other VPS partitions.
Disclaimer
Please note that these hints and tips are provided for your interest and ease of reference only. We cannot accept any responsibility for any advice or information contained in them.