For a decade now, virtual private server has been a preferred hosting solution for SMEs, popular bloggers, and marketplaces because of its flexible nature. A Virtual Private Server (VPS) effectively bridges the gap between the limitations of Shared hosting and the exclusivity of Dedicated servers and can be aptly described as a hybrid between the two. VPS hosting is an excellent solution for websites where control and resources are a prerequisite.
A Virtual Private Server is a Virtual Machine sold as a service by hosting service providers. It is created on a shared server with partitions and has its own share of storage space and bandwidth. VPS server is where a physical server is partitioned into multiple virtual servers using a virtualization software. Here, each virtual server operates in an isolated environment and gets its own dedicated resources. All virtual servers run their own copy of operating systems housed in a physical computer.
Being a hybrid between shared and dedicated server, VPS is flexible, agile and provides absolute control to the user.
Features of VPS that put a User in Complete Control of Their Website
1.Complete Root Access
Root access will grant you full control over your server and is one the most important feature of a virtual private server. With total root access, a user can control configurations, software installations and have the privilege to alter the VPS account as per their personal requirements. For advanced users who need complete control over their websites, the cPanel offers full access to CentOS giving you complete control over your server. Users can install various distros of Linux, or (if the host supports it) use Windows, and run different applications and services.
2.Scalability
When you choose VPS hosting you are given the privilege to expand and diminish your resource share based on your changing needs. Virtual private server is highly scalable and can handle unexpected and increased workloads on the server by utilizing redundant system resources. Scalability is one of the reasons why VPS is the preferred hosting solution for SMEs and marketplaces where websites often witness sudden spikes in web traffic. A VPS server enables the website to scale in need of the hour. It is especially beneficial for websites and businesses who follow a hyper-growth approach.
3.Option of Managed Support
Managed support is directed at users who lack the technical expertise or suitable resources to run a full-fledged VPS server. With managed support, users are provided with a simple interface, and the customer support team takes care of most of the backend processes. The best VPS hosting providers offer world class support for issues about container boot, hardware, network, VPS deployment and more. In managed VPS server, users are also provided support for setup and re-installation of VPS, core OS updates and patches, reverse DNS configuration and firewall setup.
4.Choice of Operating System
When choosing a reliable virtual private server from one of the top VPS hosting providers, users have an option to choose the operating system. For complete control of the website, the user can choose between Linux and Windows. However, the choice of OS depends on the type of VPS environment a user needs to run their applications. For example, if the applications run on PHP, Ruby, PERL or Python, then the user should opt for Linux. Alternatively, a windows environment is best suited for users who work on languages like ASP.net.
5.Guaranteed Resources
VPS is fundamentally about separation and is created after partitioning a server using a virtualization software. With a VPS server, a user has access to a dedicated allocation of resources and has the flexibility to choose disk space, processing speed, RAM, storage, and bandwidth.
A VPS server is flexible in its approach when it comes to scalability, support, control and is an ideal solution for businesses who need these parameters sorted. If your website needs more power and resources, and you are not looking to spend much money, then definitely switch to a VPS server. Plans from top VPS hosting providers are featured with Redundant SAN architecture, CentOS, and add-on options like cPanel and Plesk. With advanced security systems, VPS hosting bridges the gap between shared hosting and dedicated hosting. It is an apt choice for people who want to use a dedicated server but are not confident about its technicalities. With a VPS server, a user can increase their skill set and have enough resources without putting so much money upfront.