What is VPS Hosting?

A Virtual Private Server (VPS) completely relies on a virtualization platform to extract resources from a physical server to provide clients with Virtual Machine (VM) which has its own operating system. Virtual Machines are allotted a certain portion of compute, memory and storage resources derived from the physical server. There can be multiple tenants on the same server using a VM specifically allotted to them where they have access to their VMs resources but not the servers. VPS mimics a dedicated server within the shared hosting environment as it is technically a shared hosting and dedicated hosting. VPS is a better form of hosting types which is cost efficient and offers robust service and stability.

What are the types of VPS Hosting?

There are basically two types of VPS Hosting which are:
A. Windows VPS Hosting
B. Linux VPS Hosting

What is Windows VPS?

Virtual Private Server which runs Microsoft’s Windows operating system is a windows VPS. For newbies, Windows is particularly simpler than Linux in terms of usability. Windows VPS offers easy interface which a customer will find comfortable to use. If a website is built using ASP.NET framework, then Windows VPS can provide the best performance. With a Windows VPS, you can have direct access to your VPS server from your interface from any location. Server management is made simple through text based Secure Shell (SSH) protocol.

What is Linux VPS?
A virtual private server which runs on a Linux operating system is known as Linux VPS. If your website has high traffic or at least you expect to generate a lot of traffic then, Linux VPS is the best option for you. Linux VPS also offers easy to use interface with high security which is well matched with Windows VPS. Linux is a much cheaper option as compared Windows VPS. It is a flexible VPS which allows simply removing or adding software’s and applications which is a true benefit to webmasters, programmers and developers.

Advantages of VPS Hosting

A. Multiple websites can be hosted on one virtual private server which ensures cost affordability.
B. With authority of complete root access, one can customize and have full control of the virtual private server.
C. Timely backup schedules keep your website’s data safe which is hosted on a virtual private server.
D. Multiple applications can be tested and performed on the server.
E. VPS offers freedom to host unlimited sub-domains and domains.
F. A Virtual private server is a best option when it comes to e-commerce websites because these sites face high traffic and thus resource scaling adds value to the offering.
G. As resources are not shared, there are sufficient resources to keep your website stable.
H. When a website grows there is always a need for additional resources without any downtime which is exactly what a container provides in VPS.

How VPS is different from Dedicated and Shared Hosting?

Here is a simple example which will explain you the difference between Virtual Private Server, Dedicated Server and a Shared Server

Shared Server

Shared Hosting is similar to living in a building where you simply rent an apartment. Every resident in the building has same location and thus the resources like parking, playground and pool should be shared. Similarly in shared hosting, every client needs to share the resources like CPU, memory and storage.

Virtual Private Server Hosting

Virtual Private Hosting is similar to owning the entire floor in a building. While you still share the property, you are solely responsible for maintaining your floor. There are fewer residents and the parking lots are allotted. On a virtual private server, a client is allotted his own resources which won’t be shared with anyone. Even if the resources are derived from one physical server, the CPU and memory will be dedicated to each client. This offers more power and flexibility than being on a shared server.

Dedicated Hosting

Dedicated hosting is like owning a building, you are allowed to have access to all the available resources. No one will be able to reside in your building as you have complete authority over it. The resources are completely dedicated to you.

Conclusion

There are multiple options when you think about hosting your website but what is more important is that first you need to be clear about what are your website needs. If you are going to experience high traffic, then VPS is a good idea to go with. If you wish to share your resources, then you can select shared hosting and if you want the entire server with all the resources to yourself then dedicated hosting is the option for you.

Author's Bio: 

Brijesh is a digital marketing executive at Host. He is also passionate blogger who loves to pen down his thoughts on cloud computing solutions and various technology related stuff. When not writing Brijesh spends his time learning about AI, IOT and watching Sci-Fi Movies.