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    VPS Hosting

    Jon Rettinger - 2019-03-31T21:00:00.000Z

    VPS stands for Virtual Private Servers. It is a website hosting service that falls under the SaaS category. The name is self-explanatory, but to clear things further – a VPS hosting setup replicates the features of a dedicated server within the realms of shared hosting. Technically speaking, it is a nice blend of dedicated and shared hosting.

    So, what’s different about VPS hosting that makes it a preferred choice for a large number of websites – both small and large? In this article, we will try to understand the core features of VPS hosting and how it benefits businesses.

    Features of VPS Hosting

    Virtual means there is no physical equipment, everything is cloud-based. Private means all the resources are yours to use. Server is where your website and all of the data is stored. So, a Virtual Private Server is aimed to give your business the complete package, minus the hefty costs of dedicated hosting.

    So, what happens if your website’s domain is allocated a virtual space? This rented space gives you additional resources such as storage space, CPU, RAM, bandwidth, and more. With a VPS host, you get the benefits of dedicated hosting, but at a lower cost.

    Some of the standout features of VPS Hosting are –

    • SSD servers and caching
    • Expandable RAM and storage
    • Hands-off server management
    • Frequent off-site data backups
    • Enhanced security and protection
    • Round the clock customer service
    • Frequent updates
    • Compatibility with multiple software and 3rd party applications
    • Guaranteed uptime, spam protection, and easy migrations

    When Should You Choose a VPS Hosting?

    VPS isn’t the right choice for everyone. You will get a lot of features, but it also incurs additional expenses. Selecting one hosting service over the other depends on your business needs and goals. Here are some points that you should consider before going virtual:

    • If you’re looking for enhanced security features, anti-spam protection, advanced monitoring features, or plan to sell goods and services online, VPS will ensure reliable security and top-notch protection.
    • If there are sudden surges in the number of website visitors or if you’re launching some additional features, you should consider going virtual. This way, you will minimize the risk of outages or slow load-times.
    • If you have a larger website, shared hosting won’t fit the bill. This is mostly because you’ll be getting a limited amount of RAM. Upgrading to VPS will make sure that you have scalable storage and RAM.
    • If you have an online store, one of the primary requirements is being PCI-compliant. VPS hosting services are certified and more secure than shared hosting, hence a better choice for ecommerce businesses.
    • If you run a website that needs a lot of customization on the backend, a VPS comes pre-installed with commonly used software. In addition, it allows you to install additional apps and software to better run your online business.
    • If you want all of the features for your website but opting for a dedicated server is beyond budget, VPS can be a life-saver. You’ll get most features of dedicated hosting at lower costs.

    How to Choose a VPS Hosting Provider

    When deciding on a VPS host, you’ll be asked to choose between two options – (a) managed VPS, and (b) self-managed VPS. If you know how to handle everything on your own, choose the latter. Otherwise, select managed VPS.

    Once you have decided, here are the other aspects to consider before finalizing a service provider:

    • Operating System – Make sure the service is compatible with your operating system. For instance, some companies like DreamHost don’t offer Windows hosting, while others don’t offer Linux Hosting.
    • Hardware – Make sure the provider offers the latest and tested hardware such as SSD and CDN caching. Better hardware ensures that your website runs without hiccups.
    • Tech Support – The company should provide tech support around the clock because no one knows when your website or the server might run into an anomaly.
    • Backup – The hosting company should guarantee frequent data backups to local disks or other encrypted storage for restoration in case of any mishap.

    Conclusion

    There are a lot of brands in the market like Bluehost, Hostinger, InMotion, Liquid Web, Namecheap, GoDaddy, HostGator, and more. Each offers different prices and features, so make sure that you compare what each has in stock before signing up.

    While VPS is more expensive than shared hosting, it is worth the investment. You will get complete scalability, enhanced security, and better performance, granting you more control over your website and its features.