Virtual private server (VPS) web hosting is one of the popular types of web hosting these days. VPS web hosting provides fast and efficient performance, giving you the impression that you have your own dedicated server. In reality, you’re sharing memory, disk space, and other hardware resources with the other users whose sites are stored in the same server.
Pros of VPS Web Hosting
There are three basic types of hosting options available: shared server hosting, dedicated server hosting, hosting and VPS hosting. Shared hosting is the cheapest of the three but the disk space and bandwidth are often severely limited. With dedicated hosting, you have an entire server dedicated to you alone. This type of hosting gives you unlimited bandwidth and more disk space than you can use. However, it also comes with a very steep price. VPS web hosting, on the other hand, gives you the best of both worlds, so to speak. With this option, you can enjoy much higher bandwidth and a lot more disk space at a slightly higher cost, which is the primary advantage that you can enjoy.
Another important advantage of choosing VPS web hosting is that you can install practically anything you want. On shared hosting, the web host may enforce restrictions, limiting the types of files you can store or post on your site. Since you have root access on a VPS, you won’t need to worry about such restrictions. Furthermore, VPS web hosting allows you to host other sites or other services, including a mail server or an FTP server. Such extras can help make you more organized and efficient in managing your website.
Cons of VPS Web Hosting
There aren’t too many disadvantages when you’re on a virtual private server unless you’re a complete novice in website management. One of the few drawbacks is that with VPS, you have to do your own installations and maintenance, unlike in a shared server where all you practically have to do is upload your files and everything else is done for you. If you’re experienced in website building and management, you shouldn’t have a difficult time being on a VPS.
Another possible disadvantage of VPS web hosting has to do with the growth of your site, when your website has to expand and the disk space and memory allotted to you are no longer enough. After all, you still have to share resources with other websites on a common physical server. This may take some time to happen, though, and when that time comes you can either upgrade to the next VPS hosting plan or move to a dedicated server.
Still on the fence as to whether or not VPS web hosting is a good option for you? You can get a trial package and see for yourself if it’s the right move.
