What Type of Web Hosting Should I Choose for My Website?

The question never ceases to appear on profile forums: “What kind of web hosting should I choose for business?”. We decided to focus on this topic once again so that a novice user could speak the same language with the provider. And let’s start with the basics, with an overview of the types of web hosting available in the offer of most hosters. From the article, you will learn how virtual hosting differs from Ubuntu Virtual Private Server, what tasks a managed dedicated server can handle, and also which option is most acceptable for a particular business.

It is important to note that within one article we offer only overview information. If you are interested in a specific type of web hosting, you can learn more about it from a reliable provider.

What is virtual hosting?

Shared hosting is a service that provides for the use of resources of one server by several clients at once. This is a popular web hosting option, as the cost of the service is characterized by maximum availability. The disadvantage of this option is weak control over the site, low manageability – the settings cannot be changed to meet the needs of one user, and the risk of an “unreliable” neighborhood, which can affect the reputation of a “white” web resource. Also, clients of shared virtual hosting often have problems with the sufficiency of resources. After all, more active neighbors can spend more than they were initially intended to. 

Who is suitable for shared hosting?

This web hosting option is suitable for clients with low-performance requirements. If the traffic on the site is low, and its owner does not have an experienced administrator on staff who would perform certain settings, this is a great option.

An example of a client is a website blog, a small online store, or a one-page business card website.

How to launch a website on shared hosting?

It will take a few minutes to add and configure an account. All the basic settings are already there, the server is functioning.

Will I have enough shared hosting resources for the site to work?

If the site receives traffic above 100 concurrent users, the lack of resources can negatively affect performance. In general, the operation of a web resource will depend on the activity of neighbors on the server. In order to avoid a clash of customer interests, many providers impose restrictions that reduce the number of operations per user. This way it is possible to protect the performance of a specific account. Therefore, if you are not demanding of performance, this option suits you.

When is it time to switch from virtual hosting to VPS?

To understand that you have enough shared hosting resources, answer the following questions:

• Do I have enough hosting settings for my website to work?
• Do the sites receive at least some traffic?
• Do web resources bring the income I expect?
• Does my site need to run heavy plugins that need more resources?

If the answer to at least two questions is yes, consider switching to a VPS.

What is a VPS?

A virtual private server is a dedicated and separate space on a physical server. According to the principle of operation and capabilities, this is the golden mean between virtual hosting and a dedicated server. The client is provided with a disk volume with specific performance characteristics. In addition, the user can choose a number of settings for personal needs.  

Who is the ideal VPS for?

VPS is the best option for users whose needs are higher than the capabilities of shared hosting.

An example of a client is a resource that requires individual settings for the platform. At the same time, the site owner does not require the performance of a dedicated server from the hosting. VPS hosting is suitable for customers who hope for performance but are not ready for excessive spending.

How long will it take to set up a VPS?

If the requirements of the website are simple, you can set up a VPS in 15 minutes. At the same time, the more complex the platform settings, the more time it takes to launch. It is important that you can rent a managed VPS. In this case, all management manipulations are assigned to the provider. 

Conversely, an unmanaged virtual private server is just specifications, IP address, and basic settings. Be prepared to employ an experienced system administrator who will be able to manage the VPS.

What are the disadvantages of VPS?

You rent specific resources. If you lack them, there is nowhere to get more. You will need to change the pricing plan. Therefore, before choosing a VPS package, decide on the following factors:

• Do you have a team that can ensure the operation of the VPS?
• Do you know exactly which settings will ensure the excellent operation of the site?
• Does the hoster guarantee round-the-clock technical support?
• What is the amount of provider support?
• Do you need an unmanaged or managed VPS?

As for the benefits of VPS, you will definitely get what is written in the plan. If none of the proposed packages satisfies you, it’s time to switch to a dedicated server.

Dedicated Server

This hosting option provides for the rental of a separate physical server, which is completely transferred to one client. Users choose this option to take full advantage of the machine’s performance. In addition, you can configure the server exactly to your needs. The client gets full control over the following:

• Processor model and the number of processors.
• Number and configuration of hard drives (RAID-1, RAID-5, RAID-10, etc.)
• Network infrastructure (firewalls, uplink, etc.)
• Configuration of the backup storage.

Example of a client: A large concern with several branches in different cities, a commercial structure with the ability to pay online, a website of a government structure for which it is important to maintain the confidentiality of databases.

Summing up, we can say that a dedicated server is an uncompromising performance.

How long will it take to set up a dedicated server?

The customer receives a machine with certain technical characteristics at their disposal. Then it all depends on the user. They download and configure the software that will help them solve problems. The more programs and applications there are, the more difficult the setup will be.

Important: the server is transferred to the management of the user, so it is essential to have specialists on the staff who can manage this wealth.

Which option is the best of all?

Choosing the right web hosting solution is important for building a successful online business. The site will become an asset or a burden for the company – it’s up to you. Now you know what points to pay attention to when communicating with the provider. A cunning hoster will not be able to lure you into a trap, and a decent one will be pleased to see your awareness.