What is a virtual private server (VPS)?
VPS stands for “virtual private server.”
A VPS is an isolated, virtualenvironment which works exactly the same as a dedicated server without the high cost and management overheads of a physical machine.
Essentially, a web host takes a larger server and creates multiple virtual machines using the same hardware.
This makes a VPS the perfect mid-point between shared hosting and dedicated hosting, which makes it a solid choice for a wide range of different applications.
Like a dedicated server, a VPS will allow you to install applications and gain direct access to the underlying operating system at a fraction of the cost of dedicated server hosting. You have just as much control over your virtual private server as you’d have over a physical machine.
Cloud servers are effectively just another type of VPS.
There’s a common misconception that cloud servers don’t count as a VPS, but take a moment to think about it:
Is it virtual? Yes.
Is it private? Yes.
Is it a server?Yes.
So it stands to reason that cloud servers are just another type of VPS.
Why should you use a VPS?
VPS hosting isn’t for everyone, and it tends to work better in some situations than in others. We don’t want to just blindly sell you on the benefits of a VPS, so here a few reasons why you may or may not want to consider VPS hosting.
When you should consider using a VPS:
- When your website exceeds the architectural and resource limits of your shared or reseller hosting.
- When you need to install custom modules or applications that aren’t supported by your shared host.
- When you require root access to the server.
- When you want a virtual dev environment for your software development and testing.
- When you’re processing financial transactions and handling sensitive data.
- When you’re experiencing extreme traffic fluctuations.
When you should NOT consider using a VPS:
- When you’re hosting low traffic websites that aren’t mission critical.
- When you’re a beginner and you just want to learn the basics like FTP, WordPress, and cPanel.
Overall, though, VPS hosting is a versatile choice for a wide range of different situations, which is one of the reasons why it’s so popular.
It offers increased performance and scalability when compared to shared hosting while simultaneously isolating your site from those of other users. It’s also available at a much more affordable price than dedicated hosting. What’s not to love?
FAQs
If security is your biggest concern, go with a dedicated environment. If cost and scalability are important to you, a VPS may be your best choice.
When should you use a VPS? ›
Based on the characteristics of the major types of hosting services, we can conclude the following: You need VPS hosting when your website starts growing and needs more traffic and resource scalability.
Do I really need a VPS? ›
When you should consider using a VPS: When your website exceeds the architectural and resource limits of your shared or reseller hosting. When you need to install custom modules or applications that aren't supported by your shared host. When you require root access to the server.
When should I switch to VPS? ›
If your website gets more visitors, needs more resources, or wants more control over how the server is set up, switching to a VPS can improve speed and allow it to grow.
Who should use VPS? ›
If you are looking for more advanced options for your site, VPS hosting is more suitable than a shared hosting plan. It grants you root access to the server, so you can install your own OS, control panel and software to optimize site performance and security.
Why would someone use a VPS? ›
Yes, VPS hosting is fast and reliable because you are allocated your own bandwidth. You can get reliable performance similar to a dedicated server. You can also choose different operating systems and optimize server configuration to better suit your application performance.
What is a VPS best for? ›
A VPS—or virtual private server—is a virtual machine that provides virtualized server resources on a physical server that is shared with other users. With VPS hosting, you get dedicated server space with a reserved amount of resources, offering greater control and customization than shared hosting.
Should I use VPS or VPN? ›
A VPN is only used for one thing – keeping your data safe and secure when browsing the internet. A VPS is a service provided by a hosting company in order to host a website or application. While it can ultimately be used to connect to the internet, it does not inherently keep your information secure.
What can I use my VPS for? ›
VPS Use Cases
- Website Hosting. One of the most common roles of a VPS is as a web hosting server. ...
- An Application Server. ...
- A Gaming Server. ...
- An Email Server. ...
- A VPN Server. ...
- A VoIP Server. ...
- A Backup Server. ...
- A Database Server.
VPS Hosting Provides Better Performance & Reliability
With a virtual private server, you'll have dedicated resources reserved just for your website. This means you won't have to compete with other websites for resources like CPU time and RAM, which can slow down your site and affect its rankings.
Because of the nature of VPS servers, this hosting service has the potential to vastly speed up your website loading speed. Of course, this is taken in the context that a few pre-conditions are met. For example, if the web host providing the service offers web servers that respond quickly.
Should I use VPS or cloud? ›
Cloud hosting typically uses a pay-as-you-go model, which can be cheaper for variable workloads or websites with fluctuating traffic whereas VPS hosting usually has a fixed monthly cost, which can be more economical for stable, predictable workloads.
What is better than VPS? ›
Dedicated Hosting — A suitable option with better performance and security than VPS hosting. Dedicated server hosting also has more unrestricted configurability than a VPS — it's one of the most customizable hosting solutions you'll find. However, VPS has more in the way of scalability.
Is a VPS worth it? ›
VPS hosting, in theory, is a great way to have the services of a dedicated server but without the cost associated with it. However, there are some potential issues that may occur with VPS hosting. The main disadvantage from a financial standpoint is that it is more expensive than shared hosting.
What is the benefit of a VPS? ›
VPS hosting solves many of the problems presented by the cheaper shared plans. The virtual server you get with a VPS plan gives you a completely isolated environment for your website. It has guaranteed hardware resources and a dedicated IP, and, crucially, the actions of others can't affect its performance.
Is a VPS necessary for trading? ›
In the fast-paced world of forex trading, every millisecond counts. A delayed trade execution could mean the difference between profit and loss. That's where a forex VPS comes in, an essential tool for traders who want to minimize latency and maximize their trading potential.
