Virtual Private Servers are isolated Virtual Machines created using a technology called Virtualization that comes with full root access and dedicated resources. Abbreviated as VPS, Virtual Private Server Hosting provides the user all the required features and functions of a dedicated server, at a lesser price. The advantages associated with VPS Hosting include complete isolation (no impact from the activity of other users), root access (freedom to install any compatible application of choice), guaranteed resources, improved reliability, and increased security.
Who Is VPS Hosting Best Suited For?
For any business owner who is currently growing/anticipates growth as the web traffic of the online business increases, the overall performance of the website can be compromised and hampered. Such owners who want to leverage the benefits of dedicated resources, should consider migrating to VPS. Also, those business owners who have a need to install custom applications on their server, but are tight on budget or not willing to fund the maintenance and purchase of a dedicated server, should consider moving to VPS. However, business owners looking to move from Shared to VPS hosting have a lot of doubts and queries. Here are 11 FAQs that will clear all the doubts attached with VPS Hosting.
1. What does VPS stand for?
As explained earlier, VPS is the abbreviated form of Virtual Private Server. It offers a safe hosting environment to the business owner and is comparatively cheaper than a dedicated server.
2. Who uses a VPS server?
Business owners who are outgrowing their shared web hosting or basically want more control on a better price than dedicated server consider VPS as the logical choice for all their hosting needs as VPS gives them root access to Apache and PHP plus the freedom to install software of any type.
3. Why is VPS more expensive than shared hosting?
Shared hosting is like an apartment where you share all the benefits offered to other people living in it (businesses sharing the hosting). Though shared hosting is easy to manage, start and cheaper; lack of server control makes it a less preferred choice over VPS. On the other hand, though VPS is expensive, it offers a safe hosting environment and better server performance.
4. Why should I move to VPS?
If you happen to own an online (e-commerce, media, content, storefront) business that is growing fast, outgrowing your shared web hosting or you want more control over the environment that you get with shared hosting, we suggest, a better step would be to move to a managed or a fully managed VPS for your hosting needs.
5. What is the advantage of moving to VPS?
There are many benefits of hosting your website on VPS. These include:
It is less expensive as compared to a dedicated hosting plan.
Many VPS plans can be easily customized to meet the user’s need.
Many VPS hosting plans are scalable. So, as your business and needs grow, you can easily increase the hosting plan and accommodate your needs well.
Compared to shared hosting, control is greater with virtual servers. You will also have the ability to use scripts and have root access as well (these options are not available on shared hosting).
For most issues, the technical support would remain same as shared hosting. You can choose between semi managed and fully managed hosting services.
6. What is a Managed VPS?
When you as a business owner choose a Managed VPS plan, the web host makes sure that any particular Hardware, OS/Network level task where assistance is required, is provided by their support team. The key tasks that are automatically handled include fine tuning of services, OS updates, security patches, application updates, audits, application installation and monitoring services on the VPS server.
7. Is cPanel part of a VPS Plan?
This would depend on your VPS plan. In the case of managed and semi-managed plans, cPanel is likely to be included in your plan. On the other hand, in self-managed instances, cPanel maybe procured on request. However, this will differ from one hosting provider to the other.
8. Can I upgrade my VPS account?
Yes, many VPS plans are scalable. This means that you can easily downgrade or upgrade your VPS account at any given point of time instantaneously.
9. Should I go for Linux VPS or Windows VPS?
This decision will depend upon the ecosystem or tool your website or web app will be needing. For example, if your website needs the backing of ASP.NET and SQL Windows VPS will be a better fit. On the hand, if you are relying on open source platforms like ROR (Ruby on Rails), PHP, MySQL, Python; Linux VPS could meet your needs. Cost is yet another aspect to consider. Since Windows is a proprietary OS; Windows VPS Plans will be more expensive.
10. Are Virtual Private Servers customizable?
Yes, you can fully customise your Virtual Private Server to meet the growing and changing demands of the business. The access to remote desktop helps you manage your VPS. From adding to deleting any data or software from the VPS to hosting unlimited domains, you can do it all.
11. Is it easy to Use VPS?
Your VPS can be easily managed using remote desktop access. Also, you can quickly augment performance, scalability, and throughput.
Virtual Private Servers are the best way to give your growing business a push without burning a hole in your pocket (as compared to a dedicated server). So, if the needs of your website are likely to grow rapidly, VPS hosting plan is a scalable choice.
