A virtual private server (VPS) is a digital server that gives you the advantages of a dedicated server within a shared hosting environment. It’s ideal if you need more control and performance than shared hosting can offer.
In this guide, we’ll explain how VPS hosting works, its types and advantages, and how it differs from other hosting services. Our experts also share the top VPS providers today.
Key Points
- A virtual private server (VPS) offers the advantages of a dedicated server within a shared hosting environment, providing more control and performance.
- VPS hosting works by using a powerful physical server divided into multiple virtual machines (VMs) through virtualization software.
- A VPS is ideal for hosting websites, applications, and services that require more control and resources.
- If your traffic exceeds thousands of page views per day, your site slows down, or you experience frequent downtime, consider switching to VPS hosting.
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How Does VPS Hosting Work?
When you sign up for VPS hosting, each website on the server is hosted on a separate virtual partition and is assigned a set number of resources based on your VPS plan.
In VPS web hosting, you have the flexibility to make changes to your dedicated virtual server and are not restricted when it comes to the type of software or programming language you can use for web development.
Here's a breakdown of how VPS hosting works:
- VPS hosting begins with a powerful physical server, often referred to as the host server or the node. This server is equipped with hardware components such as processors, memory (RAM), storage (hard drives or SSDs), and network connectivity.
- Virtualization software is then installed on the host server. This software enables the server to be divided into multiple virtual machines (VMs), each representing a VPS instance.
- Using the virtualization software, the host server creates and manages multiple isolated virtual machines. Each VM is assigned dedicated resources from the host server, such as CPU power, RAM, disk space, and bandwidth.
- Once a VPS is created, an operating system (OS) needs to be installed on it. Users can choose the OS based on their requirements.
- The virtualization software allocates a specific portion of the physical server's resources to each VPS. This ensures that the resources assigned to one VPS are not shared or affected by other VPS instances on the same server. Each VPS operates independently, providing isolation and dedicated resources.
- Users are granted administrative access to their individual VPS instances. They can configure server settings, install software, and manage the VPS as a standalone server. Users have full control over their VPS environment, including root or administrator privileges.
- Each VPS is connected to the internet through the host server's network infrastructure. The host server typically has high-speed connections to ensure fast and reliable data transfer between the VPS instances and the outside world.
Types of VPS Hosting
1. Managed VPS
With a managed VPS hosting package, you entrust the hosting provider with all server management chores. The web host reduces your workload by maintaining your server, and you pay somewhat more than you would for an unmanaged VPS hosting package.
Proactive monitoring for signs of hardware failure, poor software performance, and any external security threat is also included in the best-managed VPS hosting plans. The host will repair those issues so that they do not interfere with the performance and dependability of your server.
2. Unmanaged VPS
Unmanaged VPS hosting, or self-managed VPS hosting, is a hosting type in which a web host offers a hands-off approach, allowing you to design your server environment to your liking. This means you'll be in charge of server installation, management, and updates. Users are also in charge of identifying security threats, installing fixes, and troubleshooting issue alerts.
If your hardware fails or goes down, you may not get any help from your host. Moreover, the supplier may exclude backup services from your package. You may have to purchase it as a paid add-on and manually activate it.
Because of these criteria, unmanaged server hosting is appropriate for those who have the technical knowledge and time to run a server.
3. Semi-Managed VPS
A semi-managed VPS hosting plan includes a certain amount of maintenance services. Depending on your provider and hosting plan, you may be able to get assistance installing operating systems and applications. The top semi-managed VPS servers also offer security features to protect your website. You will be required, however, to manage some server components or hire someone.
What Is a VPS Used For?
Consider using a VPS in the following situations:
- When your shared or reseller hosting’s architectural and resource restrictions are no longer sufficient for your needs
- When you need to install bespoke modules or programs that your shared host does not support
- When you need to gain root access to the server
- When you require a virtual environment for software development and testing
- When dealing with sensitive data or processing financial transactions
- When your website experiences huge traffic spikes that exceeds the capabilities of your current hosting provider
When Should You Switch to VPS Hosting?
Consider making the switch to VPS hosting if you notice the following indicators:
- If your traffic is growing at a rate of 30% per day and you’re receiving up to 5,000 page views per day, it may be time to switch to VPS hosting. When traffic exceeds 8,000-page hits per day, VPS hosting is a must-have solution.
- If monetizing your website becomes necessary, you should consider switching to VPS. It can provide the performance and reliability to support your business’s needs.
- Another sign that your shared hosting plans may need to be upgraded is if your site is slowing down, especially due to many plugins generating SQL database and PHP requests. It’s an indicator that your current hosting is no longer sufficient.
- Overloading may cause your website to go down sometimes, affecting your business. This is an indication that your shared hosting plans should be upgraded to VPS.
- If comments are loading extremely slowly, submitting new ones is difficult, or 404 errors are common, upgrading to a VPS can help improve performance.
- Another obvious reason to change your hosting is if your web hosting company notifies you that you’ve exhausted your monthly resources. In this case, VPS may better meet your needs.
- If your site handles large amounts of multimedia content, such as video files that must be downloaded, your site will require more processing power and bandwidth, making VPS hosting a better option.
Benefits of VPS Hosting
VPS offers several advantages that set it apart from the other types of web hosting — from hosting your website on a separate virtual space to boosted security features like cloud hosting. Here’s why VPS hosting stands out:
1. Reliable
Websites hosted on VPS don’t share resources with others. This means that even if another website on the same server experiences crashes, your website’s performance won’t be affected, since your website is hosted on a separate virtual partition.
2. Cost-Efficient
While VPS hosting isn’t the cheapest hosting solution (props to shared hosting), it is still the most cost-effective solution out of all the types — it's affordable and makes use of a dedicated space in a shared server.
Unlike dedicated hosting rates, which can reach around $100 to $500 per month, VPS web hosting rates typically range from just $20 to $60 for a monthly plan.
VPS web hosting gives you the best of both worlds, thanks to its affordability, which is similar to shared hosting, and dedicated virtual space, similar to dedicated hosting.
3. Secure
Similar to cloud hosting, VPS web hosting allows you to be in control of your website’s security. You can choose to install firewalls, acquire free SSL certificates, and utilize 24/7 security from experts to protect your data.
4. Scalable
VPS hosting allows you to easily scale your resources as your website or business grows. You can upgrade or downgrade your VPS plan based on your changing needs, such as increased traffic, higher resource requirements, or additional website installations.
5. Fully Customizable
VPS hosting provides root or administrator access to your virtual servers. This level of control allows you to install applications and software and configure the server environment according to your website or application's specific needs.
What Makes VPS Hosting Different From Shared and Dedicated Hosting?
VPS hosting is different from shared and dedicated hosting because it strikes a balance between cost, control, and performance. In shared hosting, you share server resources with other websites, which can lead to slower speeds if another site uses a lot of power.
With VPS hosting, you have your own dedicated resources within a shared server, ensuring consistent performance and greater control over your server settings. Additionally, VPS hosting provides root access, allowing for custom configurations and enhanced security.
While dedicated hosting gives you an entire server to yourself, it also comes at a higher price tag. Compared to dedicated hosting, VPS hosting is more affordable.
VPS hosting offers many of the same benefits as dedicated hosting, like enhanced security and scalability, but at a lower cost. This makes VPS an ideal choice if you need more than what shared hosting offers but aren’t ready to invest in a dedicated server.
VPS Hosting vs. Shared Hosting vs. Dedicated Hosting Compared
VPS hosting differs from shared hosting and dedicated hosting in several key aspects. Here's a comparison of these hosting types:
| Feature | VPS Hosting | Shared Hosting | Dedicated Hosting |
| Server Resources | Allocated resources, shared server | Limited, shared among users | Fully dedicated resources |
| Cost | Moderate | Low | High |
| Performance | Consistent | Varies | Best |
| Scalability | Flexible | Limited | Customizable |
| Control | Root access | Basic | Full control |
| Security | Improved isolation | Basic | Highest level |
Top VPS Web Hosting Providers
If you’ve decided that VPS web hosting is worth investing in due to its affordability and reliability, the next step is choosing the right provider. We’ve researched extensively to find reliable VPS web hosting providers and hand-picked four with a proven track record.
1. A2 Hosting
Founded in 2003, A2 Hosting is a premium web host provider that offers shared web hosting, dedicated hosting and VPS web hosting solutions. A2 Hosting has been recognized by big names in the industry such as PC Mag and Tech Radar.
With A2 Hosting, you can:
- Use unmetered bandwidth
- Migrate your account for free
- Make use of a free SSL certificate
- Receive 24/7 support from experts
Price: A2 Hosting has both unmanaged and managed VPS hosting, each with different plans:
- Unmanaged VPS hosting has Launch Plans starting at $2.99 per month and Ascent Plans at $29.99 per month.
- For Managed VPS hosting, their Takeoff Plans start at $26.95 per month, and Soar Plans at $45.95 per month.
2. HostGator
Founded in 2002, HostGator is a cost-efficient yet reliable web hosting platform with monthly plans starting as low as $2.75. Currently, HostGator hosts more than two million websites across different countries.
With HostGator, you can:
- Utilize unmetered bandwidth
- Transfer your website for free
- Make use of a free SSL certificate
- Get a free domain name for one year
Price: Host Gator has three VPS hosting plans:
- Snappy 2000 at $36.99 per month
- Snappy 4000 at $53.99 per month
- Snappy 8000 at $95.99 per month
3. Bluehost
Launched in 2003, Bluehost is a top web hosting provider recently selected as the 2021 PC Magazine Editor’s Choice for hosting. From providing SSL certificates to building WordPress websites, Bluehost is an affordable yet exceptional choice for VPS hosting.
With Bluehost, you can:
- Update, transfer, purchase and manage your domains in one location
- Acquire a free domain name for one year
- Utilize a free SSL certificate for one year
- Use Bluehost Maestro, the platform’s own version of a cPanel, to manage your websites from one dashboard
Price: Blue Host provides users with three VPS hosting plans:
- Standard NVME 4 at $56.99/month
- Enhanced NVME 8 at $70.99/month
- Ultimate NVME 16 at $101.99/month.
4. GoDaddy
With more than 20 million users subscribing to their hosting plans, GoDaddy is undoubtedly one of the top VPS web hosting providers.
From guaranteeing a 99.9% service uptime to providing around-the-clock security for websites, GoDaddy is a top choice when looking for a shared hosting provider.
With GoDaddy, you can:
- Utilize unmetered bandwidth
- Access an easy-to-use control panel
- Leverage automated data backups
- Use a free SSL certificate for one year
Price: GoDaddy has four Standard Performance VPS hosting plans:
- 1 vCPU/2GB RAM at $7.49/month
- 2 vCPU/4GB RAM at $15.99/month
- 4 vCPU/8GB RAM at $32.99/month
- 4 vCPU/16 GB RAM at $39.99/month
What Is VPS Hosting: Key Takeaways
VPS web hosting is an affordable web hosting solution that has similar features to dedicated hosting, as it provides users with a dedicated virtual space. It’s a reliable type of web hosting that’s worth considering if you want a dedicated space on the server but don’t want to break the bank.
If you’re interested in VPS web hosting, the top VPS web hosting providers include A2 Hosting, HostGator, Bluehost, and GoDaddy. Additionally, consider partnering with the best web development agency to ensure the success of your website.
VPS Hosting FAQs
1. Is VPS good for hosting?
VPS hosting is considered a good option for hosting websites and applications as it provides dedicated resources, improved performance, customization options, scalability, and enhanced security compared to shared hosting.
Balancing affordability and control, it is suitable for individuals, small businesses, and even larger companies. It offers the advantages of a dedicated server at a more affordable cost.
2. Is VPS better than VPN?
VPS hosting is a type of web hosting service that provides users with a virtual server environment, offering dedicated resources, customization, scalability, and control over the server. It is primarily used for hosting websites and applications.
On the other hand, a VPN is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection between a user's device and a private network. VPNs are commonly used to enhance privacy and security when accessing the internet, especially when connected to public Wi-Fi networks, as they encrypt the user's internet traffic and hide their IP address.
3. Is VPS hosting expensive?
The cost of VPS varies depending on many factors. However, compared to shared hosting, you should expect VPS hosting to be more expensive due to the dedicated resources and increased performance it offers. But VPS hosting is typically more affordable than dedicated hosting, which provides exclusive use of an entire server.
4. Who should use VPS hosting?
VPS hosting can be beneficial for individuals, businesses, and organizations that require more control, scalability, performance, and security than shared hosting can provide. It caters to growing websites, small to medium-sized businesses, developers, resource-intensive applications, multiple websites, enhanced security needs, custom software or applications, and users with advanced technical expertise.
