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VPS vs. Dedicated Servers: Top Usage Scenarios

Posted by QuoteColo on February 23, 2015 - Updated on March 03, 2016

VPS vs. Dedicated Servers: Top Usage ScenariosOne of the big questions for companies looking for their new host, or a first host, is whether they should choose to use VPS hosting or a dedicated server. Both of these options have some advantages, but it is important to choose the option that’s the right one for your particular business. Understanding more about these two different options, and looking at some of the most common usage scenarios for each, is a great way to help you make your decision. Read on to see which of these choices might be best for you.

What Is VPS?

A virtual private server, or VPS, host offers a virtualized server. It works similarly to a dedicated server, but there are some marked differences. It will run its own operating system, and those who choose this type of hosting will have access to that system. Because they are on a virtual server though, other virtualized servers that belong to other companies are also on the site. One of the benefits of this is that it tends to be cheaper than having a dedicated server. However, it also means that some of the aspects of using the server may be slightly slower.

Another benefit of the VPS is that it is generally quite simple to set up and use. Even those who don’t have much experience can often work with a VPS without much trouble at all.

Since you will have your own operating system, you do not have to worry that the other sites on the server will have access to your files. You can make custom changes to your server and site easily. You can update and change your server settings whenever you need, and you do not have to worry about the restart affecting anyone else on the server.

Even though there are some similarities to shared hosting, you will not have to worry about others on the server using up the system resources. You will have your own dedicated amount of RAM to ensure that you get the resources you need.

When to Use a VPS

VPS is a great option for a number of different scenarios. Those who have a relatively small team will find that it can be a great option for developer hosting, since you have your own OS and any applications that you might need. If you have a larger team, it is generally better to go with a dedicated server though.

Those who have lightweight sites that are streamlined will find that a VPS can be a great option. They will be able to run a highly optimized site quickly, even if they happen to get quite a few visitors. However, you want to make sure that you do not have a lot of content that is heavily dependent on bandwidth.

Many who are starting a site and company that is unproven will find that the cheaper option VPS option is the best way to start. It can help to save money while you build the site. In the event that you do eventually need more resources, you can then change to a dedicated server.

Another reason that using a VPS might be a good idea is if you do not have much in the way of technical experience. Since these systems are easy to learn, and you will generally get technical support with them, it’s a great place to start. It’s also a more cost-effective option. You can learn on the VPS, and then you can move on to a dedicated server in the future in you need to.

What Is a Dedicated Server?

When you have a dedicated server, you will have access to the entire server and all of the resources that it offers. This is different from VPS and shared hosting, where there are a number of virtual machines and sites on a single server. Those who have dedicated servers will have access to all of the storage space, bandwidth, and more. There are no dangers that the performance will suffer because of something another customer on the server does.

Those who use dedicated servers are able to set them up the way that they want, as well as with the OS and applications they need to run their site and their business. Dedicated servers are helpful for a variety of different reasons, and they are great for a range of uses.

When to Use a Dedicated Server

Because you will have so much more in the way of resources when it comes to a dedicated server, it makes it a great option for a number of different needs. One prime example is those who are running ecommerce sites. Because these are so resource intensive, and because they need to be up and running all the time, the dedicated server is the best option. Dedicated servers are also great when collecting any type of information on the customers, such as their financial info. It keeps it nice and safe. The only time to use a VPS server for this would be for very small ecommerce sites that do not have a lot of traffic.

Many who are running gaming servers for various games, such as Minecraft and Battlefield, will require the resources provided by a dedicated server as well. This gives the server owner full access to the server resources, which will improve the gaming experience for all who play on the server.

If you have a lot of multimedia content on your site, such as videos and audio, then it is a good idea to use a dedicated server. Again, it will make the experience better for the end user. Additionally, if the videos are popular, it is easy to go through bandwidth. If you are on a VPS, you could run through your allotted bandwidth very quickly. You will not have to worry about this when you have a dedicated server.

Any site that has a large amount of traffic will find that working with a dedicated server is generally the best option. However, you do have to realize that there are some downsides to the dedicated server. For example, it is more costly to use a dedicated server. This might not be in the budget of some of the smaller companies out there. In addition, it can be more difficult to set up and run the server if you do not have much experience in the field.

What Is Right for You?

Now that you have a better understanding of each of these options, and you have seen some of the usage scenarios for each, it should be easier to find the option that’s right for you. Think about your site and what it needs to offer, as well as your budget and your skill when it comes to working with servers. Then, look for a hosting company that offers what you need at a price you can afford.

What Do You Think?